KAJI NEMU

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Context

• Assam's Cabinet unanimously approves 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit.

Kaji Nemu

Description/Taste

• Size and Shape: Kaji Nemu lemons are medium to large, weighing 60 to 100 grams and measuring 6 to 11.5 centimeters in length. They have an elongated, oblong, elliptic, or obovate shape.
• Skin: The thin, glossy, and taut rind ranges from smooth to rough or pebbled. It transforms from dark green to golden yellow when ripe.
• Oil Glands: The surface is covered in prominent oil glands containing aromatic volatile oils.
• Flesh: Beneath the rind is a thin, white, spongy pith encasing pale yellow, aqueous, tender, seedless, soft, and succulent flesh.
• Aroma and Taste: Known for their bright, energizing fragrance reminiscent of bergamot, lemons, and lime. The taste is refreshing, subtly sweet, sour, mildly acidic, and slightly bitter.

Seasons/Availability

• Available year-round, with a peak season from June to July and December through January.

Current Facts

• Kaji Nemu lemons (Citrus limon) are an Assamese variety grown in Assam, India. They are one of the most commercially produced lemons in Assam, known for their fragrance and culinary and medicinal properties.
• Kaji Nemu lemons are exported to various countries, including the Middle East. They have received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, indicating their unique qualities and origin.

Nutritional Value

• Kaji Nemu lemons are a source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, iron, fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, copper, niacin, folate, and B vitamins. They are known for their digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Applications

• Used raw and cooked in a variety of dishes, including soups, curries, rice-based dishes, vegetables, lemon chicken, roasted meats, dals, and seafood.
• Used in chutneys, spreads, dressings, dips, pickles, cookies, cakes, tarts, custards, and puddings.
• Flavors lemonade, cocktails, tea, and other beverages.
• Can be dried or preserved by being covered in salt, rubbed with mustard oil, and sun-dried.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

• Kaji Nemu lemons are a symbol of pride and prestige in Assam and are grown for export, providing income to villagers. They are a common backyard plant in Assam and are recognized for their fragrance and juiciness.

Geography/History

• Native to Assam, Northeastern India, Kaji Nemu lemons were discovered as a chance seedling and released commercially.
• They are grown in home gardens and commercially in various towns and districts of Assam and are exported to other regions and countries.

Significance of approving 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit

• Promotion of Local Agriculture: The decision to declare 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit is expected to boost local agriculture in Assam. By promoting the cultivation and production of 'Kaji Nemu,' the government aims to enhance the economic prospects of farmers and contribute to the growth of the agricultural sector in the state.
• Cultural and Culinary Importance: 'Kaji Nemu' holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Assam. By recognizing it as the state fruit, the government acknowledges its value in Assamese cuisine and culture, thereby preserving and promoting the traditional use of this indigenous fruit.
• Global Recognition: With the declaration of 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit, Assam aims to gain global recognition for this unique citrus variety. This recognition can lead to increased demand for 'Kaji Nemu' both domestically and internationally, thereby benefiting local farmers and exporters.
• Health Benefits: 'Kaji Nemu' is known for its various health benefits, including its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. By promoting the consumption of 'Kaji Nemu,' the government aims to improve the health and well-being of its citizens.
• Overall, the approval of 'Kaji Nemu' as the state fruit is a significant step towards promoting local agriculture, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing the economic prosperity of Assam.