NTI: India, known for its rich agricultural heritage, is home to the cultivation of numerous traditional crops. Among these is Gahat, or horse gram, a significant crop grown in the Devbhoomi (Land of Gods) Uttarakhand. With a history rooted in ancient agricultural practices, Gahat has now gained recognition not only across India but also globally. India hosts 23 of the 240 known species of horse gram, though its origins trace back to Africa.
Global and Indian Presence of Horse Gram Farming
Horse gram, known by various names such as Kulthi (Hindi), Ulavalu (Telugu), Huruli (Kannada), and Koluth (Tamil), is primarily cultivated in India. Karnataka accounts for 28% of the country’s total production, followed by Tamil Nadu (18%), Maharashtra (10%), Odisha (10%), and Andhra Pradesh (10%).
Beyond India, horse gram is also cultivated in countries like China, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. In Uttarakhand, the crop is grown using traditional methods, as it thrives in rain-fed conditions and demonstrates exceptional drought resistance.
Health Benefits of Horse Gram
Rich in proteins and carbohydrates, horse gram is a nutritious food source. It contains calcium and calcium phosphate, which are beneficial for dissolving kidney stones and preventing their formation. Additionally, Ayurveda recognizes horse gram for its medicinal properties.
The crop is rich in phytic acid and phenolic acid, making it effective in treating cough, throat infections, fever, and asthma. Horse gram seeds also inhibit protein tyrosine phosphatase 1-beta enzymes, helping regulate blood sugar levels and reducing insulin resistance.
Cultivation Practices in Uttarakhand
Horse gram is traditionally cultivated in Uttarakhand’s cold regions, with its warming properties making it ideal for consumption during winters. The crop has two main varieties: wild and cultivated. Its seeds come in various colors, including red, white, black, and brown, and it is often referred to as the “poor man’s food” due to its affordability and nutritional value.
In Uttarakhand, horse gram has gained popularity not only as a staple food but also for its medicinal uses, attracting the attention of companies researching and developing related products.
Government Initiatives to Promote Horse Gram Farming
Despite its potential, horse gram farming in Uttarakhand has faced challenges due to rural migration and shrinking agricultural activity. To address this, the Uttarakhand government, in collaboration with the Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan in Almora, has initiated efforts to boost production. Villages such as Kasoon, Bhatgaon, and Jyoli were selected for awareness campaigns and training programs.
Farmers were introduced to the benefits of cultivating horse gram and trained in modern techniques to enhance yield. As a result, horse gram farming in Uttarakhand has evolved into a branded agricultural product, leading to increased demand both domestically and internationally.
