Jorhat, Dec. 19: Several varieties of glutinous rice (bora saul), developed by the Assam Agricultural University here, have become very popular in and outside the region.

A release issued by the university today stated that the Vadodara-based General Food and Chemical Corporation has placed a request for two tons of seeds of the Aghoni Bora variety, while the New Delhi-based Picric Limited has asked for detailed information on the different varieties of glutinous rice.

Several other companies, too, have approached the AAU for relevant information on the seeds.

Glutinous rice is traditionally grown in the South and Southeast Asian countries, including the northeastern states, in the kharif season.

The varieties are widely used for preparation of special dishes and confectionery during functions and festivals. Rice beer is also made from glutinous rice.

According to unofficial estimates, 80,000 to 100,000 hectares of land is under cultivation of glutinous rice. The yield potential of traditional varieties is as low as 1.5 tonnes per hectare. However, AAU has developed three high-yielding varieties — Rongilee, Bhogali and Aghoni — with yield potential of 4 to 5 tonnes per hectare, which were recommended for cultivation by the farmers of Assam in 1990.