Nanjangud Rasabale banana

Why in News?

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced that the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) will conduct a study to protect the Nanjangud Rasabale banana (a GI-tagged variety from Karnataka) from diseases, particularly Panama Wilt.

Key Highlights

Nanjangud Rasabale Banana

• A banana variety unique to Nanjangud (Karnataka).
• Known for distinctive taste and pulp.
• Earned Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2005-06.
• Cultivation restricted to Nanjangud region due to GI protection.

Disease Threat – Panama Wilt

• Identified by Horticulture Department officials.
• Source: Linked to flood irrigation introduced after canal construction.
• Earlier, the crop had no major disease incidence.

Other GI Crops in the Region

• Mysuru Betel Leaf
• Mysuru Mallige (Jasmine)

(Source: TH)