Borkhola’s Nurul Alam Grows 99% Sugar-Free Rice “Cachar Sona”, Perfect for Diabetics

A farmer from Chechri in the Borkhola area of Cachar has been growing a rice variety known locally as Cachar Sona, which has been tested and found to be 99% sugar-free. This unique characteristic makes it highly suitable for diabetic patients and those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The rice, originally named Telangana Sona, was introduced to Cachar in 2019 and has since gained recognition for its health benefits and excellent taste.

Rice is often a concern for diabetic patients due to its high glycaemic index, which measures how quickly a food increases blood sugar levels. Traditional rice varieties are rich in carbohydrates and can cause significant spikes in blood sugar, making it unsuitable for regular consumption by those managing diabetes. As a result, many people avoid rice altogether, despite it being a staple in their diet.

However, Cachar Sona offers a solution to this challenge. With a low glycaemic index of 51.6 and being 99% sugar-free, it allows diabetic patients to enjoy rice without fear of health complications. This unique variety enables them to maintain their traditional diet while effectively managing their condition, providing comfort and nutritional value during a challenging situation.

Nurul Alam Barbhuiya, the farmer behind this cultivation, has been working with this rice since 2019. Inspired by the guidance and support of Ranjit Sarkar, the Assistant Director of Agriculture (DL-II) in Cachar, Nurul has dedicated himself to growing this special variety. Despite setbacks like this year’s devastating floods, which destroyed 13 of the 15 bighas he cultivated, he managed to salvage two bighas and continues to grow the rice with determination.

Nurul credits the District Agriculture Department for its role in making this endeavour successful. He mentioned how they provided him with the necessary knowledge and support to understand the process of cultivating this variety. The department also helped him navigate the challenges of marketing the product, ensuring that Cachar Sona reached the right audience.

Dr A.R. Ahmad, District Agricultural Officer, highlighted the department’s role in introducing this rice to the region. “The Agricultural Department helped and guided him during cultivation and marketing. The initiative was taken by Ranjit Sarkar, who inspired Nurul to explore Telangana Sona. This variety can be very healthy as it is sugar-free and financially productive as well,” he stated.

Dr Ahmad also emphasised that the project’s success showcases how agricultural innovation can benefit both farmers and consumers. The department is committed to supporting such initiatives to improve agricultural practices and promote healthier food choices.

Ranjit Sarkar, the Assistant Director of Agriculture (DL-II) Cachar, brought the rice to Cachar in 2019 after discovering it during his search for diabetes-friendly crops. “I have a keen interest in discovering new kinds of rice to help farmers. I don’t invent them; I search for them. Back in 2013, I introduced black rice, and in 2019, I brought Telangana Sona. It is known for being sugar-free and has helped me personally as I am also a diabetic patient,” Sarkar explained.

He further elaborated on the rice’s characteristics, saying, “Telangana Sona was developed by the Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University. It is a high-yielding variety with fine grains, high dietary fibre, and a low glycaemic index of 51.6. The rice is thin, long-grain, and delicious after cooking. It has 8.76% protein content and minimal breakage after milling, making it an excellent choice for farmers and consumers alike.”

Nurul was chosen for this initiative due to his progressive outlook and willingness to adopt new practices. Sarkar noted that it was challenging to find farmers willing to experiment with new crops, but Nurul’s enthusiasm made him the perfect candidate for the project. His consistent efforts have been pivotal in popularising Cachar Sona in the region.

Speaking about his journey, Nurul shared, “Ranjit Sir guided me every step of the way. This rice is very healthy to consume and tastes just like Punjab rice after cooking. Even my landlady tried it and loved it. It is a blessing for diabetic patients as they can enjoy a full meal without worries.”

Pramila Singh Choudhury, the landlady of the field where Nurul grows the rice, also expressed her satisfaction. “I have consumed it. It fills the stomach, tastes as good as expected, and is excellent for diabetic patients,” she stated.

Telangana Sona, or Cachar Sona as it is locally known, is a versatile rice variety that takes 125 days to grow. It is suitable for cultivation in both kharif and rabi seasons and yields 6.5-7 tons per hectare. With its high nutritional value, including a low glycaemic index, it is a valuable addition to the diet of diabetics and health-conscious individuals.

The significance of this rice lies in its potential to improve lives. For diabetics, it offers a chance to enjoy rice without health concerns. For farmers, it represents a financially rewarding crop with high demand. Cachar Sona is not just a rice variety but a step towards healthier lifestyles and agricultural progress in the region.

In 2013, Ranjit Sarkar introduced black rice to Cachar through his own initiative. Recognising its potential, he brought the seeds from outside the region and distributed them to farmers for multiplication. Among the many farmers who grow Black Rice in Cachar, Nurul is one of them. The farmers embraced this unique variety, finding it not only easy to cultivate but also highly profitable. Sarkar’s efforts not only benefited the farmers financially but also added diversity to the agricultural landscape of Cachar.

Black rice, also known as purple rice, is a nutrient-rich grain celebrated for its numerous health benefits. Packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, it has anti-inflammatory properties and helps combat free radicals in the body. It is a good source of dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. Additionally, black rice is rich in iron and protein, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Its low glycaemic index also makes it a diabetes-friendly option, much like Cachar Sona, and its unique colour and nutty flavour add to its appeal.