MP: Why is Seonoi's famous Jumbo Sitaphal so special, how GI tag will benefit this variety and cultivators?
Seoni: The famous 'Jumbo Sitaphal' (custard apple) from Seoni district has received the GI (Geographical Indication) tag. The GI tag will provide the Seoni Jumbo Sitaphal with a distinct identity in both national and international markets, while also ensuring better prices for the farmers' produce.
The Sitaphal from Seoni district is renowned across the country for its large size, excellent quality, and a unique, naturally developed sweet taste. The average weight of the fruit ranges from 200 to 650 grams, though many fruits produced in the Bhootbandhani region weigh between 800 grams and one kilogram.
It contains fewer seeds and a generous amount of white, thick, and naturally very sweet pulp. The fruit is an excellent natural source of potassium, magnesium, and vitamins, which aid in heart health and blood pressure regulation. It is highly popular in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and surrounding areas. The GI tag will safeguard the product's unique identity and prevent the misuse of its name.
This variety thrives in the rocky, forest-rich terrains and favorable agro-climatic conditions of Seoni. Local growers, including the Bhoot Bandhani Sitaphal Crop Producer Company Limited, have championed its cultivation.
Farmers to Benefit
Dr. Asha Upvanshi-Vasevar, Assistant Director of Horticulture in Seoni, said, "The GI tag will directly benefit thousands of Sitaphal-growing farmers in the district. Seoni's Sitaphal can now be marketed with its unique identity, and producers from other regions will be unable to use its name."
She said this is expected to boost both the demand for and the price of the product. Additionally, it will encourage custard apple cultivation, area expansion, and processing activities, thereby increasing farmers' income and creating new local employment opportunities.
About 6,090 metric tonnes is produced annually
Currently, custard apple cultivation covers an area of about 695 hectares in Seoni district, yielding approximately 6,090 metric tonnes annually. The district's custard apples are in high demand in major cities across the country, including Delhi, Mumbai, Nagpur, Raipur, and Varanasi.
Fruit is also processed into pulp
The fruit is also processed into pulp, which is used to make ice cream, *rabri*, *basundi*, *lassi*, shakes, and various sweets. Furthermore, the leaves and peels are utilized in the production of organic manure and medicinal products. Two Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have been formed by organizing local growers, and three custard apple pulp processing plants have been established in the district.
Seoni Collector Neha Meena has extended her congratulations to District Horticulture Officer Dr. Asha Upvanshi-Vasevar, the district administration, the Horticulture Department, farmers, horticulture experts, and all relevant stakeholders.
The Collector stated, "The GI tag will give 'Seoni Jumbo Custard Apple' a new identity in domestic and international markets, resulting in better economic returns for the district's farmers. This achievement marks a significant step towards strengthening Seoni's agricultural heritage and accelerating regional economic development."