A-Peel-ing News: Balanagar Custard Apple Poised for GI Tag Sweetnes

Image Source: VGlobe News

Telangana's Mahabubnagar district's Balanagar custard apple, India's celebrated favourite fruit, stands to become one of the next big recipients of the Geographical Indication (GI) label. If certified, this award is likely to become a key landmark-not for growers of just the fruit itself, but of agricultural identity of the region, and the local rural economy, as well. The Balanagar custard apple would thus become South India's first recipient of the Geographical Indication for the exclusive fruit variety.

Background and Field Study

The group of specialists, comprising participants from Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, GI facilitators, NABARD officials, and local farmers' leaders, made a meticulous field study in the district of Mahabubnagar in the villages such as Pomal, Kollur, Kesharavalpalli, and Kothapalli.

The research looked into the exclusive geographical and botanical features of the Balanagar custard apple, and its natural existence in adjacent forest pockets and processing behavior among local farmers.

Nutritional Superiority and Distinct Features

Balanagar custard apple is renowned for its gigantic size, remarkable sweetness, and nutrient-rich pulp, with an illustrious past of over six decades.

Nutritional points to note are:

5.2% protein
19.4% vitamin C
26.22% total sugars
28% total soluble solids
Rich in vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron

These figures exceed most other custard apple types, which makes it very much in demand, particularly in the ice-cream market.

Economic and Social Impact

GI recognition will provide exclusive branding rights, meaning only produce from this area can be sold as Balanagar custard apple.
Experts believe that GI status may boost farmer incomes by 15–20% more than existing market prices and open up new job opportunities in the countryside.
NABARD has approved ₹12 lakh for pre-registration studies and promotional activities for aiding the GI application process.

Cultural and Regional Significance

Historically, the fruit was picked from wild orchards and gained prominence after its pulp became a flagbearer of taste at Hyderabad's legendary Moazzamjahi Market ice-cream parlour in the 1950s.
The GI tag will not only enhance economic opportunities but also make the Balanagar custard apple a registered emblem of Telangana's agricultural heritage and regional pride.

Next Steps

The scientific report, DNA analysis, and historical evidence are being prepared for submission to the GI Registry in Chennai.
Upon approval, the area of cultivation will be demarcated officially, leading to international recognition and top prices for local farmers.

Sources: Deccan Chronicle, Curly Tales,Telangana Today, Siasat

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