Ekalavya Mallepalli | Hyderabad 

In a major boost to Telangana’s agricultural legacy, the famed Balanagar Custard Apple has been officially filed for Geographical Indication (GI) status on June 23, 2025, under Class 31, which covers agricultural and horticultural products. This marks the 19th GI application from the state, reflecting Telangana’s growing commitment to recognizing and protecting its native produce.

The GI Application (No. 1569) was submitted by GI practitioner Subhajit Saha of Resolute4IP on behalf of three farmer-based organizations—Pomal Farmer Producer Company Limited, Balanagar Farmer Producer Company Limited, and The Primary Agricultural Cooperative Society—with funding support from NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development).

Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University played a critical technical role in this initiative. Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Pidigam Saidaiah and under the guidance of Vice Chancellor Dr. Danda Raji Reddy, the university compiled scientific documentation and conducted field studies to validate the fruit’s unique agro-morphological features.

Dr. Reddy confirmed that the university is actively working on six more horticultural crops that will be filed for GI registration following detailed investigations. Known for its thick rind, high pulp content, low seed count, natural sweetness, and longer shelf life, the Balanagar Custard Apple stands out for its quality and resilience. These traits are attributed to the region’s diverse agro-climatic zones, encompassing forest growth, domestic farming, and border plantations, particularly in Mahabubnagar, Vikarabad, and Rangareddy districts.

The fruit joins the ranks of custard apples already seeking or granted GI protection in India, including Beed Custard Apple (Maharashtra), Seoni Sitaphal (Madhya Pradesh), and Kanker Custard Apple (Chhattisgarh), showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity. Subhajit Saha emphasized that the GI recognition, once approved, will provide legal safeguards, strengthen branding, and unlock access to premium domestic and export markets.

It also lays the groundwork for packaging, marketing, and registering authorized users. Udaya Bhaskar, CGM, NABARD, noted the institution’s commitment to supporting agro-based rural industries. DDM P. Manohar Reddy from Mahabubnagar assisted throughout the study phase, reinforcing how this initiative will directly uplift local cultivators.