Historic shipment marks global debut of Assam’s traditional ‘bao dhan’ in international markets
The river island district of Majuli in Assam marked a major milestone on Friday by dispatching its first-ever international consignment of red rice, locally known as bao dhan, to Dubai and Russia. The 267-metric tonne export is being hailed as a landmark achievement for the region’s indigenous agriculture and organic farming practices, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The ceremonial flag-off was held in the presence of Majuli MLA Bhuban Gam, Deputy Commissioner Ratul Chandra Pathak, SSP Bibekananda Das, and other senior agriculture officials. Export operations are being handled by IVC Agrovet Pvt Ltd, marking the beginning of a trade initiative that officials hope will grow in scale.
Majuli’s traditional red rice enters the global food market, boosting local farmers and Assam’s sustainable agriculture legacy
“This is a historic moment. Exporting organically grown red rice to Central Asia and Europe not only supports local farmers but also brings Assam’s rich agricultural heritage to the global stage,” said MLA Bhuban Gam.
Why Red Rice Matters
Red rice from Assam is prized for its aromatic quality, high nutritional value, and traditional organic cultivation. Rich in iron, protein, dietary fibre, and vitamins, it also contains a high level of anthocyanins, which give it its distinctive red hue and potent antioxidant properties.
Health experts note its potential benefits in digestion, anaemia, bone health, asthma relief, weight control, and cardiovascular wellness, aligning with the global demand for functional, health-focused superfoods.
Cultural and Culinary Legacy
The grain’s versatility has long made it a favourite in Assamese cuisine, used in both sweet and savoury dishes. Now, thanks to this milestone export, Majuli’s red rice is being recognised as a valuable addition to global culinary and wellness markets.
“This consignment is more than just a trade development—it’s a tribute to Majuli’s farming heritage,” said DC Ratul Chandra Pathak. “Our farmers have preserved these organic practices for centuries, and now the world is seeing their value. We aim to expand exports to even more countries soon.”
The initiative arrives at a time when international consumers are increasingly embracing organic, region-specific grains. Officials believe this successful shipment will pave the way for more indigenous Indian crops to find global audiences, reinforcing India’s role in sustainable agriculture and food innovation.
