Abu Saunf-440: Rajasthan First Farmer-Bred Fennel Variety to Receive Patent Recognition
In a groundbreaking achievement for Indian agriculture, Abu Saunf-440, a unique fennel (saunf) variety developed by farmer Ishaq Ali from Sirohi, Rajasthan, has become the Sirohi first farmer-bred crop variety to receive patent recognition under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA).
After years of dedicated research, field trials, and natural selection, this innovative fennel variety has been officially registered, making it a milestone in the history of farmers’ rights, agricultural innovation, and crop protection in India.
Abu Saunf-440 is not only known for its superior yield, aroma, and quality but also represents the power of farmer-led innovation. This recognition paves the way for more Indian farmers to get their unique crop varieties patented, strengthening both food security and the agricultural economy.
With this achievement, India has taken a major step forward in acknowledging the role of farmers as innovators, ensuring they receive the credit, recognition, and benefits they truly deserve.
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Rajasthan’s First Abu Fennel Gene Bank in Kachholi Gains Global Recognition in Premium Spice Category
As reported in Dainik Bhaskar on March 3, 2025, the establishment of Rajasthan’s first Abu Fennel Gene Bank in Kachholi, Sirohi District, marks a major breakthrough in the spice industry. Spearheaded by fennel innovator Ishaq Ali, this pioneering initiative is dedicated to preserving and refining premium fennel varieties. By combining traditional farming knowledge with cutting-edge techniques, local farmers are carving out a unique identity on the global spice map—showcasing the region’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and global outreach in the premium spice category.
Abu Saunf 440: Innovative Fennel Seed Variety Brings Recognition and Progress to Rajasthan Farming Community.
A new variety of saunf (fennel seeds) called Abu Saunf 440 was developed by Ishak Ali, a farmer from Kachholi village in Sirohi district, Rajasthan, through a scientific selection process over 15 years. This variety gives almost double the yield (30 quintals per hectare) compared to conventional types, has a more distinct scent and shine, needs 55% less water, and is resistant to most crop diseases. Ali’s innovation has brought fame to his village, with half the 8000 hectares under saunf cultivation in the region now using Abu Saunf 440. He also invented a thresher-cum-grading machine, allowing him to bypass middlemen and get better prices. Ali has received several awards, including the Jagjivan Ram Abhinav Puraskar, and has been recognized by President Pranab Mukherjee for his contributions to agriculture in India.
Abu Saunf 440: A Breakthrough in Fennel Farming
As reported in Rajasthan Patrika on July, 2011, Abu Saunf 440 is a breakthrough fennel seed variety developed in Rajasthan, offering farmers exceptional quality and yields. This innovative variety is recognized for its vibrant green color, rich aroma, and natural resistance to diseases, thanks to years of careful selection and advanced farming techniques. With reduced need for water and minimal use of chemicals, it has become a model of sustainable and profitable agriculture. Its introduction has improved incomes, empowered rural communities, and brought both national recognition and legal protection for local farmers. Abu Saunf 440 stands as a symbol of progress, quality, and pride for the region's agricultural community.
US Agricultural Scientists Observe 'Abu Saunf 440'
Ishaq Ali, born in Badarpur village of Gujarat's Mehsana district and a resident of Kachholi village for about 40 years, has earned a name for himself by inventing a new variety of fennel called 'Abu Saunf 440'. On Thursday, agricultural scientists from Florida, USA, arrived here to observe the new variety.
A team of scientists including Dr. James W. Rushing and Dr. Clare Neroad from the University of Maryland, Florida, USA, along with Dr. Jon Jo Varghis of the Indian government's Spice Board and Dr. Venugopal, visited Kachholi. The team gathered detailed information on the cultivation and results of the new variety developed by the young farmer, Ishaq Ali. He explained that in his farming method, the plant-to-plant distance is kept at 30 cm, and water is supplied only as needed. This new technique has proven very popular with farmers as it saves 55% of water, makes it easier to use a tractor in the standing crop, and simplifies weed cleaning and other maintenance tasks. This has also led to a reduction in diseases like blight and other fungal infections. The scientists were impressed with Ali's innovative approach and also observed his unique method of drying the fennel. He dries the fennel in a shaded hut, which keeps the color uniform and fetches better prices in the market.
A Booming Business: Sirohi's Abu Saunf 440
According to the Patrika News article, Abu Saunf from the Sirohi district is highly valued for its quality and fragrance, and it's a significant cash crop for local farmers. The fennel is cultivated on 4,000 to 4,500 hectares in the Abu Road and Reodar blocks.
The article states that the unique climate of the region is the key to the fennel’s superior quality. Despite this, farmers face a major challenge because they have to rely on the Unjha market in Gujarat to sell their produce, which prevents them from getting the full value for their crops.
The author suggests that establishing small processing and packaging units along with a dedicated market within the district would significantly boost farmers' income and create jobs. The article also mentions that the reputation of Abu Saunf has reached the President's House, where a variety called 'Abu Saunf-440' is grown in the Mughal Garden. The article concludes that with proper infrastructure, the fennel industry in the region could thrive and bring greater prosperity to the farmers.
Ishaq Ali: The Uncrowned King of Fennel Cultivation
Born in Badarpur, Mehsana district, Gujarat, Ishaq Ali moved to Kachholi village in Sirohi, Rajasthan, at the age of one. He has since become a pioneer in fennel cultivation, earning him the honorary title of 'Fennel King'. He is the innovator behind a new fennel variety called 'Abu Saunf-440', which is celebrated for producing a higher yield with 5% less water.
Ali's groundbreaking work has brought him national recognition. He has met with former Indian Presidents to share his knowledge and experiences. He presented his research on the fennel variety to former President Pranab Mukherjee at an exhibition of farmer-scientists' research achievements at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Ishaq Ali was also among a select group of 7-8 farmer-scientists who were invited to a special meeting with former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at his residence in Delhi. Known as the 'People's President', Dr. Kalam shared his scientific insights and listened to the inspiring stories of these innovative farmers, including Ishaq Ali.
The Uncrowned King of Fennel Farming
Born in Badarpur, Mehsana district, Gujarat, Ishaq Ali moved to Kachholi village in Sirohi, Rajasthan, at the age of one. He has since become a pioneer in fennel cultivation, earning him the honorary title of 'Fennel King'. He is the innovator behind a new fennel variety called 'Abu Saunf-440', which is celebrated for producing a higher yield with 5% less water.
Ali's groundbreaking work has brought him national recognition. He has met with former Indian Presidents to share his knowledge and experiences. He presented his research on the fennel variety to former President Pranab Mukherjee at an exhibition of farmer-scientists' research achievements at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Ishaq Ali was also among a select group of 7-8 farmer-scientists who were invited to a special meeting with former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at his residence in Delhi. Known as the 'People's President', Dr. Kalam shared his scientific insights and listened to the inspiring stories of these innovative farmers, including Ishaq Ali.
The Story of 'Fennel King' Ishaq Ali
Born in Badarpur, Mehsana district, Gujarat, Ishaq Ali moved to Kachholi village in Sirohi, Rajasthan, at the age of one. He has since become a pioneer in fennel cultivation, earning him the honorary title of 'Fennel King'. He is the innovator behind a new fennel variety called 'Abu Saunf-440', which is celebrated for producing a higher yield with 5% less water.
Ali's groundbreaking work has brought him national recognition. He has met with former Indian Presidents to share his knowledge and experiences. He presented his research on the fennel variety to former President Pranab Mukherjee at an exhibition of farmer-scientists' research achievements at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Ishaq Ali was also among a select group of 7-8 farmer-scientists who were invited to a special meeting with former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at his residence in Delhi. Known as the 'People's President', Dr. Kalam shared his scientific insights and listened to the inspiring stories of these innovative farmers, including Ishaq Ali.
Ishaq Ali makes a mark through crop engineering
The Story of 'Fennel King' Ishaq Ali
This article tells the story of successful farmer Ishaq Ali, who is known as the 'Fennel King'. Born in Mehsana, Gujarat, he moved to the Sirohi district of Rajasthan at the age of one. He has developed a new variety of fennel called 'Abu Saunf-440', which is special because it gives a higher yield with 5% less water. For his innovative research, he has been honored by former presidents, including Pranab Mukherjee and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
The article also provides general information about fennel cultivation. Fennel is primarily grown for spices and oil in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. It is best grown in the autumn season and requires a dry climate when it matures. It can be grown in all types of soil except sandy soil, provided there is proper drainage.