The endangered hatkora (Citrus macroptera Mont.) that grows in the hilly areas of Mizoram is perhaps one of best kept secrets of this exotic state. Known to be a semi-wild citrus variety, this native fruit is revered by locals for its medicinal, healing and nutritional properties.
Hatkora is used in traditional medicine to treat fever, jaundice, digestive and alimentary disorders, food poisoning and others. It has rare cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antipyretic, anti-diabetic and appetite stimulant compounds.
The peel is rich in caffeic acid and used to treat cancer, inflammations and others. Fresh and dried peels are used to extract essential oils that are used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The bitter sour juice of the hatkora is used to treat stomach and digestive ailments.
Studies have proven that the peel, seeds and pulp of hatkora can be used in the manufacturing of many value-added products. It is estimated that hatkora is cultivated extensively by small and marginal farmers who have received significant incentives and encouragement from APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) and NERAMAC (North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited).
Hatkora of Mizoram particularly Mamit district is exported to Bangladesh, UK, Burma and Thailand. Farmers have seen an overall increase in their income and production per hectare.
As Mizoram invests heavily in organic farming, the locally grown produce sees many buyers across the country and overseas.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
sahasa.in 
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