In the serene Jubarajnagar Agriculture Subdivision of the North District, a group of determined farmers uncovered a treasure—not gold, but something just as valuable—nutrient-rich black rice. Their journey to success began under the SMAE extension program of the ATMA project, where 28 farmers from Uttarakhali Panchayat and 10 from Balidhum ADC village ventured into uncharted territory. With courage and ambition, they experimented with cultivating black rice across three hectares of land.
The farmers were not alone in their quest. The agricultural department stood firmly by their side, offering seeds, financial aid, and expert guidance. Under the watchful eye of Bijan Kanti Sharma, the visionary agricultural supervisor, the group poured their sweat and hopes into the fields. The results were nothing short of remarkable. Their first harvest yielded an astounding 5,500 kilograms of black rice. Of this, 1,500 kilograms were sold beyond state borders, earning an impressive Rs 80 per kilogram—four times the price of regular paddy.
The air was filled with celebration and pride as the farmers shared their triumph. Their success was honored at a special program, graced by former MLA Malina Debnath, who lauded the agricultural department for its relentless support and innovative vision. This moment wasn’t just about the harvest; it was a testament to the power of perseverance and community-driven growth.
But what exactly made this black rice so extraordinary? Known by names such as purple rice and forbidden rice, black rice is a marvel of nature. Its deep black hue transforms into a rich purple when cooked, thanks to anthocyanin pigments in its bran hull. These pigments, among the highest found in any food, not only lend the rice its striking appearance but also pack it with incredible health benefits. Nutty in flavor and rich in fiber, black rice is a versatile ingredient, used in everything from porridge to desserts, bread, and noodles.
In India, this prized grain is known as “chak-hao” in Manipur and “kavuni arisi” in Tamil Nadu. Its legacy spans cultures, celebrated for both its nutritional value and its culinary versatility. For the farmers of Jubarajnagar, however, black rice is more than just a crop—it is a symbol of transformation and hope.
With their initial triumph fueling bigger dreams, the farmers are already planning to expand cultivation in the coming year. Their journey, marked by hard work and innovation, has set the stage for a future of sustainable and profitable farming, proving that with the right support, even small communities can achieve extraordinary things.
(With inputs from Debasish Datta of Kailasahar)
