OPEN ACCESS | Published on : 05-Feb-2026 | Pages: 11-33 | Doi : 10.37446/volbook072024/11-33
Kalanamak rice (Oryza sativa L.), sometimes referred to as “Buddha Rice” or ‘Buddha Home Rice,’ holds a significant place in the religious and agricultural history of India. This heritage rice variety is believed that Lord Buddha himself gave to the farmers of Bajaha village in Siddharth Nagar district of U. P., some 3000 years ago. Facing extinction but due to the Bhagirath Prayas of the Dr. Ram Chet Chaudhary, the Chairman of PRDF and his team not only saved Kalanamak from extinction but made it distinction by exporting to the world market. Historically prized for its unique fragrance, taste, and nutritional benefits, Kalanamak rice saw a decline during the Green Revolution period due to its lower yield compared to HYV varieties and absence of improved varieties. The programme involved germplasm collection, followed by the pureline selection, hybridization and selection to develop improved varieties like KN 3, Bauna Kalanamak 101, Bauna Kalanamak 102 and Kalanamak Kiran. Seed of these varieties are available to farmers produced using Nucleus, Breeder, Foundation, and Certified seed system. PRDF also protected Kalanamak through registering it under PPV & FRA, and also Geographical Indications (GI). Success of Kalanamak rice however, faces challenges, particularly in the availability of quality seed, ensuring authenticity and quality control amidst the proliferation of counterfeit products. Advanced technologies such as blockchain, QR code-based tools and modern traceability systems are proposed to combat these issues. Sustainable agricultural practices, ongoing research, and innovations are emphasized as crucial for the continued growth and environmental viability of Kalanamak rice cultivation. Government is also supporting organic and natural farming systems to ensure quality products.
Kalanamak rice, sustainable agriculture, heritage rice, germplasm collection, nutritional benefits, export potential, tripling farmer's income
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