Mysore, Udupi, Hadagali Mallige flowers patented
Bangalore,
Jan
2:
To
protect
the
three
local
rare
and
unique
flower
species--Mysore
Mallige
(Jasmine),
Udupi
Mallige,
and
Hadagali
Mallige—of
Karnataka
have
been
patented.
The
GI
(Geographical
Indication)
status
has
provided
excusive
rights
to
the
local
community
to
cultivate
these
three
crops
and
continue
to
grow
for
10
years
and
more.
All the three flowers are household names in Karnataka and known around the world. The new status helps protect its commercial interest too. 'Three flowers Mysooru Mallige, Udupi Mallige and Hadagali Mallige along with Mysore betel leaf and Nanjangud bale (a variety of Banana) were registered under Intellectual Property Right (IPR)," said K.Ramakrishnappa, the Director of Horticulture. “Favorable weather condition have nurtured rare plant species and six out of ten plant species that have been registered under the intellectual property rights are from the State," K.Ramakrishnappa added.
Awareness of Genetic Programming is essential to protect rare plant species and the government is conducting workshop to create more platforms for individuals to discuss and patent rare species.
Karnataka has 411 Horticulture farms in the State, where information on these flowers by way of demonstration is given. The State government is actively promoting the cultivation of these rare species.
Mysore Mallige derives its name since it is grown mostly around Mysore and partly in Srirangapatna taluk in Mandya district. The uniqueness of this jasmine variety is its lingering fragrance. Besides, Mysore Mallige is grown in Hadagali and Udupi places.
Hadagali Mallige, locally known as “Vasane Mallige", is grown mainly in Hoovina Hadagali and surrounding areas in Bellary district.
However, the cultivation of Udupi Mallige is of relatively recent origin. Cultivation of this variety of jasmine started in Shankarapura in Udupi district about 100 years ago. The flower is in high demand in places such as Mumbai, besides the coastal region. These flowers have a long shelf life and can stay fresh for about three to four days in the bud condition.
ANI