Latest news with #Labanya
Time of India
06-08-2025
- Business
- Time of India
‘Labanya' brings superfood nutrition to plates
Guwahati: At a time when consumers are seeking food that's not only nutritious but also sustainably and ethically produced, 'Labanya' — a vibrant, high-yielding purple rice — has emerged as Assam's answer: an ancient superfood reimagined for a modern world. Developed by Assam Agricultural University (AAU), 'Labanya' is India's first fully purple high-yielding rice variety and has secured registration under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority. The rice has gained widespread acceptance among farmers in 18 states, including Punjab and Daman and Diu. Researchers say 'Labanya' successfully blends the health benefits of traditional black rice with the practicality needed for everyday use and commercial farming. Unlike black rice, which is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, and fibre but comes with productivity and cooking challenges, 'Labanya' offers a solution. Black rice, while recongised for its distinctive flavour and nutrition, remains largely reserved for special occasions in Assam due to its low yield, sticky texture, and long cooking time. This gap prompted intensive research by AAU scientists at Titabor, leading to the development of 'Labanya', said Sanjay Kumar Chetia, director of research (agri) at AAU. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Elegant New Scooters For Seniors In 2024: The Prices May Surprise You Mobility Scooter | Search Ads Learn More Undo "Labanya contains higher levels of antioxidants, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and essential minerals than common rice varieties. Its productivity reaches about five tonnes per hectare — more than double that of traditional black rice," Chetia told TOI. "Moreover, its head rice recovery exceeds 60%, compared to less than 30% for black rice," he added. Traditional black rice's inherent characteristics limit consumer preference and export potential. However, researchers said 'Labanya' addresses these limitations with consumer-friendly attributes, enhancing its export market prospects.
News18
04-08-2025
- Business
- News18
Assam Agriculture University develops purple rice; gets plant variety registered
Jorhat (Assam), Aug 4 (PTI) A high-yielding purple rice variety 'Labanya', developed by Assam Agriculture University (AAU), has been registered under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA), officials said on Monday. 'Labanya' integrates the rich nutritional profile of the traditional black rice, with the adaptability and convenience required for both daily consumption and commercial cultivation, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of AAU, Ranjit Kumar Hout, said. 'AAU is pleased to announce that 'Labanya' has recently been registered under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA). This is a big achievement for the scientists at AAU," he said. According to an official directive from the office of the Chancellor of AAU, the variety was officially launched for commercialization before its formal registration and notification by the Government of India, only to leverage its commercial potential, the PRO said. 'Accordingly, 'Labanya' was introduced on e-commerce platforms and exclusive commercial rights were granted to a local entrepreneur. The variety has been sold across more than 18 states with over 30 per cent of buyers identified as repeat customers, reflecting strong market demand and consumer satisfaction," he said. The salient features of the rice are that its yield potential is 4.5–5 tonnes per hectare, as observed in farmers' fields, Hout said. 'Labanya' also has a lower glycemic index, aromatic grains and ease of cooking, thus making it ideal for regular dietary use, he said. 'It has higher head rice recovery (60 per cent) and amylose content (18 per cent), ensuring superior milling and eating quality. It is also rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, essential amino acids and minerals," the PRO said. Besides, 'Labanya' is suitable for a wide range of value-added products, including bakery items, traditional delicacies and gluten-free flour, he added. 'Compared to conventional black rice, which is often limited by low yields (1.5–2 tonnes per hectare) and longer cooking times (approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour) with a sticky texture, the rice addresses these challenges while preserving the health benefits and market appeal of pigmented rice," Hout said. PTI COR TR SB. . TR SBN view comments First Published: August 04, 2025, 18:30 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
