In a significant move, the Assam government has officially designated ‘Kaji Nemu’, also known as citrus lemon, as the State Fruit of Assam.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to micro-blogging site X to announce this decision, emphasising the unique aroma and antioxidant properties of Assam lemon that have greatly enriched local cuisines.
Sarma expressed confidence that this announcement would propel Assam lemon onto the global fruit map, fostering self-dependency and enhancing production in the region.
Earlier this week, Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora had declared ‘Kaji Nemu’ the state fruit during the budget session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, following the state cabinet’s decision.
In a separate development, the Directorate of Horticulture and Food Processing, Assam, initiated a specialised trade promotion programme for Kaji Nemu in November 2023.
This programme targeted four prominent metro cities in India – Delhi NCR, Pune, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The initiative engaged 40 marketing experts in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune, covering 100 key locations to promote the Assam lemon.