How Odisha's Kalajeera Rice is Gaining Global Attention with IRRI's Support

Odisha's government has teamed up with the International Rice Research Institute to enhance the cultivation of Kalajeera rice, a unique indigenous variety. This collaboration aims to improve the livelihoods of tribal farmers in Koraput by increasing production and commercialization of local rice varieties. The initiative focuses on preserving the rice's unique qualities while promoting economic growth through value-added products. With plans for infrastructure development and support for women entrepreneurs, this partnership is set to transform the agricultural landscape in Odisha. Learn more about the health benefits and market potential of Kalajeera rice.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 9, 2026, 13:03 IST

Collaboration to Boost Indigenous Rice Cultivation

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has partnered with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) from the Philippines to enhance the cultivation and commercialization of local rice varieties, particularly focusing on Kalajeera rice, as announced by officials on Wednesday.

A team from IRRI, led by principal scientist Dr. Nese Sreenivasul, met with Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo on Tuesday to explore strategies for boosting the production of Kalajeera and other rice types in the region.

Increasing the cultivation of these native rice varieties could significantly improve the livelihoods of tribal communities in Koraput and surrounding areas.

During their discussions, it was agreed that IRRI would offer advanced technical support to maintain the unique aroma, genetic purity, and high quality of Odisha's specialty rice varieties, including health-oriented low-GI rice, according to an official statement.

Kalajeera rice, often referred to as the 'prince of rice', is a rare aromatic variety with a GI tag, primarily grown by tribal farmers in Koraput.

The government and IRRI representatives also decided to encourage the expansion of the crop's cultivation area.

The meeting highlighted the health benefits of Koraput's Kalajeera rice, which is known to enhance immunity.

"The state plans to promote Kalajeera rice as a key demonstration project, enabling farmers to benefit from higher minimum support prices (MSP) and favorable market conditions," another official remarked.

This initiative aims to optimize the economy by creating value-added food products from broken rice, supported by the establishment of local rice milling units and processing facilities.

Such infrastructure development is expected to empower rural farmers and women’s groups, turning them into micro-entrepreneurs.

"Through this collaboration, Odisha seeks to safeguard its agricultural heritage while creating a resilient, market-oriented business model for its farming community," the official added.

The visit also facilitated knowledge sharing with IRRI scientists under the joint project 'Promoting Women Entrepreneurship through Rice Value Addition', which encourages the exchange of best practices in post-harvest processing and sustainable, women-led agribusiness.

Reports indicate that during the kharif season of 2024, over 1,800 farmers across eight blocks in Koraput cultivated Kalajeera rice on 1,365 acres. For the first time, 1,900 quintals of paddy were procured directly through independent mandis established by farmer groups.

In 2025, the cultivation area expanded to 2,000 acres, including various indigenous rice varieties.

Kalajeera rice from Odisha is priced between Rs 150 and Rs 350 per kilogram, depending on the brand, processing technique, and packaging.