The pokkali variety of rice is known for its saltwater resistance and flourishes in the rice paddies of coastal Alappuzha, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts of Kerala.
•The single-season paddy is raised in saltwater fields between June and November followed by a season of fish-farming.
•The uniqueness of the rice has brought it the Geographical Indication (GI) tag and is the subject of continuing research.
•Given its ability to thrive under harsh climatic conditions and produce high yield, it can help in promoting climate-resilient agriculture.
•Pokkali has medicinal properties and its higher value of antioxidants and low carbohydrate content makes it preferable to those on a low sugar diet.
•Vyttila-11 is the latest variety of pokkali developed by the Kerala Agricultural University.
It yields about 5 tonnes per hectare.
The crop duration is about 110 days.
•It is unique as it practices rice cultivation below sea level.
By Susmitha Reddy
I'm Susmitha.from telangana.studying bsc agriculture.