Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented curated samples of traditional Indian grains and healthy millet bars to Food and Agriculture Organisation Director-General Qu Dongyu during his visit to Rome, highlighting India’s agricultural diversity, nutritional heritage and sustainable food traditions.
The exchange took place during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Italy, where the FAO also conferred upon him the 2026 Agricola Medal, the organisation’s highest honour, recognising his contribution to food security, agricultural development and farmer welfare.
Prime Minister Modi gifted several indigenous rice varieties sourced from different parts of India, each representing distinct farming traditions and regional agricultural heritage.
Among the gifts was Kerala’s GI-tagged Red Rice, also known as Matta rice, cultivated in the Palakkad region.
Known for its reddish-brown colour and coarse texture, the rice retains high nutritional value due to minimal processing and is rich in fibre, magnesium and Vitamin B6.
The Prime Minister also presented Gobindobhog rice from West Bengal, an aromatic short-grain variety recognised for its creamy appearance, soft texture and naturally sweet fragrance.
Widely used in traditional Bengali cuisine, the rice remains one of eastern India’s most valued indigenous varieties.
Another gift included premium Basmati rice from the Indo-Gangetic plains.
Globally recognised for its long slender grains, delicate aroma and fluffy texture, Basmati remains one of India’s most celebrated agricultural exports.
Prime Minister Modi also gifted Assam’s aromatic Joha rice and Uttar Pradesh’s traditional Kalanamak or ‘Buddha Rice’, both valued for their flavour and nutritional benefits. He further presented millet bars made from jowar and bajra, highlighting India’s focus on nutritious, climate-resilient and sustainable food products.
Officials said the gifts reflected India’s commitment to promoting traditional grains, healthy diets and sustainable agriculture globally.
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