GI-Tagged Gulbarga Tur Dal
Why in News?
On 24 September 2026, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) flagged off a 1 MT consignment of GI-tagged Gulbarga Tur Dal from Karnataka to the Maldives, marking a step to expand international markets for GI-tagged agri-products and strengthen FPO-led brands in agri-exports.
About Gulbarga Tur Dal
- Identity: Also known as Kalaburagi Togari Bele or Red Gram, it is a premium variety of pigeon pea widely cultivated in the drylands of the Kalaburagi region in North Karnataka.
- The "Gold of North Karnataka": Due to its incredible popularity and economic contribution to the region, it is locally dubbed the "Gold of North Karnataka".
Unique Properties & Quality
- Soil & Climate Influence: The Kalaburagi region features a distinct type of black soil that is highly rich in calcium and potassium.
- Superior Characteristics: This unique soil profile gives the dal an exceptional aroma, rich taste, superior cooking properties, and a significantly higher protein content compared to other varieties.
GI Tag Details
- Registration Year: The product officially received its Geographical Indication (GI) status tag on August 14, 2019.
- Registered Proprietors: The application was jointly registered by the University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Raichur and the Karnataka Togari Abhivrudhi Mandali Ltd. (Karnataka Pulses Development Board).
- Significance: It was the 49th product from Karnataka and only the second pigeon pea variety in India (after Maharashtra's Navapur Tur Dal) to obtain a GI tag, protecting it against counterfeiting and unauthorized marketing.
Economic Impact
- Annual Output Value: The Gulbarga region produces Tur Dal worth approximately ₹3,000 crore annually, serving as the backbone of the local dryland agricultural economy.
- Government Support: To counteract unauthorized mills and ensure genuine pricing, the Karnataka Government distributes authenticated versions of the pulse under state-backed initiatives like Bhima Pulses, which sources directly from local farmers.
