Panaji: The directorate of agriculture is set to double the cultivation area for red amaranth (tambdi bhaaji) this rabi season, distributing 275kg of seeds—nearly twice last year's 140kg—to local farmers.
“We want to promote local agriculture and double the cultivation area for red amaranth,” said director of agriculture, Sandeep Faldesai. “Since red amaranths are grown in rabi season, seeds have been distributed and some have already started germinating,” he added.
Renowned for its adaptability to Goa’s laterite soil and climate, red amaranth is preferred over green amaranth in Goan diets. It is nutrient-rich with high levels of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. The crop matures rapidly, yielding 14.8 tonnes per hectare in 45 to 60 days.
ICAR-CCARI in Goa conducted surveys, collecting and evaluating 37 accessions of red amaranth, and some green and intermediate varieties from the state. The red amaranth from Manora-Raia, Salcete, showed the highest yield during the rabi season and demonstrated tolerance to white rust. It has since been released as Goa Tambdi Bhaji-T for the state.
The directorate of agriculture will also distribute seeds of the seven-ridge okra, known locally as saat shiro bhendo. It has distinctive seven-sided pods, which are light green or light yellow and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The saat shiro bhendo received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2023, boosting its agricultural value.
“We are procuring vegetable seeds from local farmers, who preserve these indigenous varieties, and will distribute them to farmers across Goa,” Faldesai said.