Guwahati, May 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought Assam’s indigenous agricultural heritage into international focus during his recent foreign tour by presenting a sample of Assam’s aromatic Joha rice to Qu Dongyu.
The gesture was highlighted by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who said the presentation reflected increasing global recognition for Assam’s traditional products. In a post on X, Sarma described Joha rice as a distinctive small-grain scented rice variety native to Assam that holds both cultural and agricultural importance.
Joha rice is cultivated in several regions of the state and is widely known for its characteristic fragrance, soft texture and taste. It remains an important element of Assamese cuisine and is commonly used in households as well as festive preparations.
Unlike many long-grain aromatic rice varieties, Joha rice is smaller in size and is regarded as a significant part of Assam’s traditional agricultural identity. The rice has also drawn attention in premium and niche food markets because of its unique flavour and traditional cultivation methods.
Agricultural experts have often identified Joha rice as one of Assam’s distinctive geographical and cultural products, with growing potential for wider recognition beyond domestic markets.
Sarma stated that the presentation of the rice sample to the FAO chief represented the growing presence of Assam on the global stage and reflected efforts to showcase the state’s heritage and indigenous products during international engagements.
