Kalaburagi Jolada Rotti set to enter global markets

Kalaburagi: The nutrient rich, tasty Kalaburagi Jolada Rotti is set to be exported to the US, UK and Australia this week.The move is expected to encourage entrepreneurship in the district and bring about major changes in the lives of women in women self-help groups. Samad Patel, the joint director of agriculture, Kalaburagi, told TOI: "We sent a sample of 100 rottis to Europe and Australia, which got approved. Now, we will be despatching 10,000 rotis each to the US, UK, and Australia, with the hope that demand will further increase in these countries." He further said: "More than 1,000 people in Kalaburagi are preparing rottis using machines provided by the agriculture department. To provide a systematic market for Kalaburagi rottis, the online marketing platform for foreign countries is being expanded.: According to Patel, Astham Exports and Imports Company, which has export licence for 25 countries, is interested in promoting Kalaburagi rottis globally. Though the company is Pune-based, it was established by natives of Kalaburagi. "We have told them to sell the products under the Kalaburagi rotti brand with our own premium packing. Initially, we may get only Rs 15 per rotti, including manufacturing, packing and transportation cost, but once consumers like it, they will be ready to pay more," Patel added. He further said that a manufacturing, packing, and branding unit is being set up at the District Agriculture Training Centre for Rs 55 lakh with CSR funding from HDFC Bank. "We need to construct a building (for a production facility) at a cost of Rs 32.5 lakh. Once done, we will be able to increase capacity to 10,000 rottis per day," he said. He also said 1,000 farmers are being trained to increase production and packaging, of which 90% are women. Kalaburagi district minister Priyank Kharge said to provide an organised market for Kalaburagi rotti, the state govt has taken several steps, such as an online marketing and promotional system, raising awareness on the product and its unique features, and expanding its export potential. Box: Benefits of Jolada rotti: * Rich in fibre * Low on fat * Free from gluten * Suitable for diabetics