Joha Rice

News: APEDA facilitated the first export consignment of 25 metric tonnes of GI-tagged Joha rice from Assam to the United Kingdom and Italy on 12 March 2026.

About Joha Rice

• Joha rice is a short-grain aromatic rice variety known for its distinctive fragrance, soft texture, and traditional cultivation practices.
• Origin: It originates from Assam in Northeast India, where it has been cultivated for centuries as part of traditional agricultural systems and local food culture.
• Cultivation: The crop is generally cultivated as a short-grain winter paddy during the Sali rice season.
• Key features
  • Aromatic rice variety: Joha rice emits a strong natural fragrance and is valued for its fine grain texture and rich taste.
  • Short-grain winter paddy: It is mainly cultivated during the Sali or winter rice season in Assam.
  • Nutraceutical properties: The rice contains essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 along with antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.
  • Health-related properties: Research indicates that Joha rice may help lower blood glucose and prevent diabetes due to bioactive compounds like oryzanol, ferulic acid, and tocotrienol.
  • GI recognition: The rice received Geographical Indication status in 2017 for its unique origin and traditional cultivation.
• Significance: The promotion and export of GI-tagged Joha rice help expand international markets and improve the economic value of traditional agricultural products for farmers.