Hyderabad: Telangana has inched a step closer to securing recognition for Sajjapur Chamadumpa (Colocasia), after its Geographical Indication (GI) application was technically accepted by the GI Registry in Chennai on Tuesday.Filed in the name of the Telangana Council of Science and Technology (TGCOST), the application marks a major milestone for this distinctive colacasia landrace from Sajjapur village in Kohir mandal of Sangareddy district.The application was filed by Telangana-based intellectual property (IP) expert Subhajit Saha and Pidigam Saidaiah, professor at Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University. Saidaiah served as the principal investigator for the TGCOST-supported project. The team documented proof of origin, varietal traits, biochemical profiling, DNA tagging, cultivation practices, and geographical link behind the crop’s unique qualities.Sajjapur Chamadumpa is the first Colacasia variety to seek GI protection. It is known for its purple streaks on the tuber skin, high dry matter content, soft non-sticky texture after cooking, and low acridity. These traits are linked to Sajjapur’s black cotton soils and local agro-climatic conditions.Vice chancellor Danda Raji Reddy said that GI registration could improve premium pricing, market differentiation, and export prospects for farmers. TGCOST member secretary Dr Rajendra Prasad said the tag would help protect authenticity and support genuine producers.
