Marcha rice

Did You Know?

• The name 'Marcha' is derived from the grain's resemblance to black pepper; in Hindi, pepper is called Marcha (मर्चा चावल).
• It is also locally known as Mircha, Marchaiya, and Maricha.

Description

Marcha rice is known for its distinctive scent, which can be detected in the plant, grain, and flake forms. The flakes are soft and sweet, making them a high-quality product. The grain itself is short, oval, and plump, with a dark brown husk; one hundred grains weigh between 1.6 and 2.2 grams. The growing crop has pale green leaves that are broader than average and shows strong, vigorous growth. This variety thrives in clay or clay loam soils and is fed with organic manure. Its unique aroma comes from specific local conditions, especially in areas along the Budhi-Gandak (Sikarahna) River. There, mineral-rich runoff from the Himalayas and a cool microclimate in October and November help develop the scent, which is present from the seedling stage through flowering.

Geographical indication

Marcha rice was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Government of India on 31 July 2023, valid until 28 November 2031. The GI registration was proposed by Marcha Dhan Utpadak Pragatisheel Samuh from Mainatand. After filing the application in November 2021, the rice was granted the GI tag in 2023 by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai, making the name 'Marcha rice' exclusive to the rice grown in the region.