Bihar
In an interview with Economic Times, The Bihar State Biodiversity Board (BSBB) expressed concerns over the sharp decline in farming traditional varieties of rice, and launched a conservation plan to protect rare varieties such as 'Marcha rice' and 'Sona Chur' in the state.
Sona Chur or Sonachur, gets its name from the color of the husk which is light brown thus, resembling drops of gold (sona) and, size of grain making it look like gold dust. It is traditionally grown in Buxar, Bhojpur, Rohtas and northern parts of Bihar and, fetches a premium due to its superior taste and popularity. Sonachur is the preferred variety for everyday table rice, pulavs and Biryani despite being a short grain. It is also reserved for special occasions and, preparations like Rasia – a rice kheer cooked particularly during Chath Puja in Bihar.
Today, this rare rice has travelled from kitchens in Bihar, and is being conserved in Manjakkudi, Tamil Nadu.