Kalaburagi, Oct 26 (IANS) Kalaburagi’s famous Thogari (pigeon pea or toor dal), widely known as the “Thogari Khanaja” of Kalyana Karnataka, is gaining international recognition.
The development is bringing pride to farmers and traders. The region’s renowned pulse has attracted attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Kalaburagi Thogari during his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, as an example of a local product making its mark in global markets.
Kalaburagi district is popularly known as a treasure house of Thogari due to its extensive cultivation and the distinctive quality of its pigeon peas. The crop has also received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising its regional identity and importance.
The unique soil conditions of the region, including its limestone-rich terrain, are considered among the factors contributing to the characteristics of Kalaburagi Thogari. According to the nutritional figures provided, 100 grams of the pulse contains approximately 22.30 grams of protein, 1.70 grams of fat, 3.50 grams of minerals, 57.60 grams of carbohydrates, 335 kilocalories of energy and 73 milligrams of calcium. Its protein content is reported to range between 18 and 23 per cent.
Thogari is an important source of dietary protein and contributes to nutritional security. Its cultivation across Kalaburagi, Bidar, Yadgir, Vijayapura and other districts of Karnataka supports farmers’ livelihoods while contributing to the country’s pulse supply.
The growing demand for Kalaburagi Thogari in international markets has raised hopes among farmers and dal mill traders of better business opportunities and improved returns.
However, traders believe that the government should take steps to regulate pulse imports from foreign countries and encourage domestic farmers to cultivate high-quality pulses.
Talking to IANS, Gulbarga Dal Mill Association Director Pratish Tapadiya highlighted the international recognition and export of GI-tagged Kalaburagi Thogari dal, mentioned by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat.
Meanwhile, farmers and Dal Mill Association office-bearers have said that appropriate policies, market support and promotion of indigenous produce could strengthen local agriculture and reduce dependence on imported pulses.
–IANS
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