Madhya Pradesh govt to seek GI for 'kadaknath' chicken

Buoyed with victory over getting clearance for Geographical Indication (GI), Chennai, for basmati rice patent Madhya Pradesh is gearing up for obtaining more patents, interestingly Kadaknath Chicken, which had reached extinction in last decade.

The chicken found in tribal dominated district of Jhabua in western Madhya Pradesh had created controversy during 90s when it reached extinction and genetic erosion due to over consumption. Locally known as 'kali masi', the kadaknath was very popular reportedly among influential people mainly for its palatable black meat, which is believed to infuse vigor.

Later National Agriculture Innovation Project (NAIP) made an effort to protect this rare race under a project called "Integrated farming system for sustainable rural lively in undulating and rainfed areas in Jhabua and Dhar districts."

The farmers welfare and agriculture development department will file applications for patent of the breed soon. Besides, Kadaknath, the government will also file applications for Sharbati wheat, Jamanapari goat and Nimari cow.

Recently, Geographical Indications registrar has ordered Apeda (Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) to file an "amended" application including uncovered area with map of the region clearly demarcating the area of production within two months or by February this year. "We will file more applications for patents for Jamnapari goat, Nimari Cow, Kadaknath chicken and sharbati wheat," said Rajesh Rajora, principal secretary of the farmers welfare department said.

Jamnapari goat breed has the highest growth rate in species while Nimari cow is known for its resilient nature against drought.

State Farmers Welfare and Agriculture Development department, Madhya Kshetra Basmati Growers Association Samiti, Dawat Foods Ltd had in 2011 filed an "Opposition" (application) against APEDA for excluding the state land area under the GI-145 application. "This had actually caused damaged to farmers as well as millers, Apeda will have to file an amended application in this regard."

"It was a victory for us APEDA has to file an amended application for our Basmati rice, we are now receiving investment interests in rice processing mills," he said.

As many as five lakh farmers grow Basmati rice in Raisen, Harda and Hoshangabad districts and produces eight lakh ton which is processed in five rice processing units. Of this 40-50 per cent is exported.