Bhalia wheat in Gujarat: Does geographical indication registration have a role in arresting the decline?

Abstract

Cultivation of GW-1 Durum (Triticum Durum Desf, Tetraploid Wheat) under conserved soil moisture condition (CSMC) is unique to the Bhal (saline) and coastal agro-climatic region of Gujarat, India. Popularly known as Bhalia wheat, there is historical evidence that CSMC was in practice since the early 1940s in Gujarat. This nutritious golden colour wheat fetches a higher price for the farmers compared to the irrigated wheat. Drawn from a larger study on geographical indications (GI) in agricultural sector in India, this study found that soil conservation and land preparation practices are rich in traditional knowledge, involve social cohesion and provide employment. Cost of cultivation of Bhalia wheat is less, as it is not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, in comparison with the irrigated wheat, the yield from CSMC wheat is relatively less. Besides the self-consumption, farmers cater to a small segment of traders and consumers who are willing to pay more and insist on buying the pure CSMC wheat directly from farmers. Changes in the consumers’ preference in favour of readymade flour to make bread, demands from urbanisation, changing climate and the availability of canal water in the Bhal area leading to reduction in area under Bhalia wheat. Though Bhalia wheat has the GI registration in India, the awareness about uniqueness and GI label is limited. Effective use of the GI label to attract consumers based on the nutrition value of the wheat would provide a boost to this sustainable cultivation tradition and prevent cultural erosion.