The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI) in Port Blair has facilitated the registration of a unique mango variety, 'Chinta Mango,' under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority (PPVFRA), New Delhi. This historic registration marks the first time a mango variety has been recognized under the PPVFRA.
Chintaharan Biswas, a progressive farmer from Shaheed Dweep, is the proud cultivator of the Chinta Mango. With a thriving orchard of 100 mango trees, Biswas has worked closely with ICAR-CIARI to document and develop this distinctive variety. The recognition of Chinta Mango is a testament to Biswas's dedication and the support provided by ICAR-CIARI.
Chinta Mango is notable for several unique characteristics. One of the most striking features is its purple peel during the unripened stage, setting it apart from other mango varieties. The fruits are large, weighing between 300-400 grams, with a delectable yellow pulp that is sweet and low in fiber. The average Total Soluble Solids (TSS) of the fruit is recorded at 19.6°B, indicating its high sugar content.
ICAR-CIARI has played a crucial role in the morphological and biochemical characterization of Chinta Mango. Their comprehensive analysis has highlighted the fruit's richness in carotenoids, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and its significant antioxidant activity. Another noteworthy feature is the occurrence of polyembryonic seedlings, which allows the purity of the genotype to be maintained through seed propagation.
Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), officially presented the registration certificate to Biswas during his recent visit to ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair. The registration process was meticulously supervised by Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, ensuring that all criteria for the PPVFRA registration were met.
The registration of Chinta Mango under the PPVFRA not only honors the innovative farming practices of Biswas but also sets a precedent for other farmers in the region. This achievement highlights the importance of preserving and recognizing indigenous varieties and provides a framework for protecting farmers' rights over their unique agricultural products.
With this registration, Chinta Mango is poised to gain wider recognition and potentially open new markets domestically and internationally. The efforts of ICAR-CIARI and the dedication of Biswas serve as an inspiring model for agricultural innovation and farmer empowerment across India.
