The sweet aroma of Kalahandi’s traditional scented rice is about to travel far beyond Odisha’s borders. Thanks to a focused initiative by the ICAR-Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI), Cuttack, under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), nearly 700 acres across the district are now under cultivation of high-quality aromatic paddy varieties destined for international markets.
In the first phase, 205 farmers from Kokasara, Dharmagarh and Jayapatna blocks have received free seeds and organic manure. The selected improved fragrant varieties include CR-908, CR-909, Ketakijoha, Purbabhog, Nua Chini Kamini and Nua Dhusara — prized for their distinct aroma, grain quality and market appeal.
Once harvested, the paddy will be procured from farmers at approximately ₹4,000 per quintal. After milling, the rice is planned for export to the United States, Vietnam and several African countries. The project also aims to produce foundation and certified seeds of these traditional aromatic varieties to meet demand within Odisha and beyond.
“The main objectives are conservation of Odisha’s traditional fragrant rice varieties, production of quality seeds, creation of export opportunities and enhancement of farmers’ income,” said senior scientist Dr. Sutapa Sarkar.
This initiative marks a significant step in linking Kalahandi’s rich agricultural heritage with global demand, promising better returns for local farmers while putting Odisha’s aromatic rice firmly on the world map.
