Berhampur, July 13: A young farmer from Odisha's Ganjam district has scripted a remarkable success story by exporting seven tonnes of the nutrient-rich Labanya variety of black rice to Chicago, USA, highlighting the growing global demand for Odisha's specialty agricultural produce.

Bikram Goud, a progressive farmer from Chikiti Gada village, cultivated the premium black rice on 10 acres of farmland during the current season. He harvested more than eight tonnes of the crop, of which seven tonnes were exported to the United States, while the remaining one tonne was sold in Koraput.

The achievement has brought international recognition to Odisha's agriculture and demonstrated the export potential of value-added indigenous crops.

Known as a nutritional powerhouse, black rice is rich in anthocyanins, the antioxidants responsible for its distinctive black-purple colour. It is also a good source of dietary fibre, iron, protein, flavonoids and several essential minerals, making it increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers worldwide.

Instead of depending on conventional middlemen, Bikram established direct contact with overseas buyers through digital platforms, enabling him to secure an international market for his produce. His success highlights how technology and direct marketing can help farmers access global markets and improve their incomes.

The Labanya variety is a high-yielding, non-sticky black rice developed for better commercial cultivation and export. With rising international demand for healthy and specialty grains, the variety is emerging as a promising export crop for Odisha.

Agriculture experts say Bikram's achievement could encourage more farmers in the state to diversify into high-value crops and explore export opportunities, further strengthening Odisha's position in the global agri-export market.

While black rice is widely recognised for its nutritional benefits, experts caution that it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and should not be regarded as a treatment or cure for diseases.