Wada Kolam Rice (Zini Rice) from Maharashtra’s Palghar gets GI Tag

A variety of rice widely grown in Wada in the Palghar district of Maharashtra has been given a ‘Geographical Indication’ (GI) tag, which means the product now gets a unique identity as well as the wider market base. Divisional agriculture joint director Ankush Mane said Wada Kolam rice got the GI tag in a meeting held in Mumbai on September 29.

The traditional variety of Wada Kolam rice, also known as Zini or Jhini rice, is grown in Wada tehsil of Palghar district in Maharashtra.

The grain is off-white in colour, with price ranging between Rs 60-70 per kilogram in domestic markets, and has a sizable demand overseas as well.