Marcha rice is a variety of non-Basmati, short-grained aromaticrice mainly grown in theIndian state ofBihar. It is a common and widely cultivated crop in Ramnagar, Gaunaha, Mainatand,Chanpatiya,Narkatiyaganj andLauriya blocks ofWest Champaran district.^[1]

Under itsGeographical Indication tag, it is referred to as "Marcha Rice".^[2]

The name "Marcha" is derived from the grain's resemblance to black pepper as in the state language ofHindi, pepper is called Marcha (मर्चा चावल).^[3][4][5] It is also locally known as Mircha, Marchaiya, and Maricha.

List of characteristics and facts about Marcha Rice:^[6]

• This rice variety has a unique aroma in plants, grains, and flakes. It offers palatability and produces high-quality aromatic rice flakes which are soft and sweet. The husk is dark brown and the grain shape is oval, short and bold, with a 100-grain weight of 1.6-2.2g. The crop has a pale-green color, broader leaves and more vigorous growth.

• This rice variety is suitable for clay and clay loam soil, and uses organic manures for nutrients.

• This rice variety develops a unique aroma due to specific agro-climatic conditions, particularly in blocks along theBudhi-Gandak (Sikarahna) River. The soil is enriched with minerals from runoff water from theHimalayan terrain enriches the soil with minerals. A microclimate with low temperatures during October-November enhances aroma development. The aroma is present in the field from the seedling to the flowering stage.

• No major disease infestation recorded in Marcha rice.

It was awarded theGeographical Indication (GI) status tag from theGeographical Indications Registry, under theUnion Government of India, on 31 July 2023 and is valid until 28 November 2031.^[7][2]

Marcha Dhan Utpadak Pragatisheel Samuh from Mainatand, proposed the GI registration of Marcha rice. After filing the application in November 2021, the rice was granted the GI tag in 2023 by the Geographical Indication Registry inChennai, making the name "Marcha rice" exclusive to the rice grown in the region.^[8][9][10] It thus became the second rice variety from Bihar afterKatarni rice and the 23rd type of goods from Bihar to earn the GI tag. The GI tag protects the rice from illegal selling and marketing, and gives it legal protection and a unique identity.

• Magahi Paan

• Rice varieties
• Indian cuisine
• GI Tagged Rice varieties of India
• Rice production in India
• Economy of Bihar
• Agriculture in Bihar
• Geographical indications in Bihar

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• Articles with short description
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