Kunthalgiri Khawa (Khoya) from the Dharashiv district of Maharashtra has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Central Government, a prestigious recognition that highlights the unique qualities of this product and its importance to the local economy. This tradition dates back to 1972, when farmers in the Kunthalgiri area began making khawa (khoya) and khawa peda (sweet) from milk as a supplementary business to agriculture. At first, only a few farmers along the Solapur Dhule highway were involved in this activity, but over the years, it gained national recognition, transforming into a thriving industry.
The region, characterized by hilly terrain and limited water for agriculture, has found a lifeline in dairy farming. Farmers turned to making khawa and peda as an alternative source of income, and now the production of these dairy products has become the primary business for many. The local khawa, known for its excellent nutritional value and superior quality, has earned the admiration of consumers far beyond Maharashtra, prompting the central government to grant it a GI rating. This certification not only affirms the quality and distinctiveness of Kunthalgiri khawa but also ensures its protection against imitation.
Kunthalgiri’s khawa production has grown significantly, with 25,000 farmers now engaged in the milk business. The area operates 300 bhattis (furnaces) dedicated to making khawa and an additional 200 bhattis for producing peda. Together, these operations produce an astounding 30 tonnes of khawa every day. The region’s production process has become so efficient that the export of Kunthalgiri khawa to pilgrimage destinations across India has begun, bringing the taste of this local delicacy to a wider audience.
Kunthalgiri’s khawa and peda have not only gained popularity for their flavor and quality but have also had a profound social impact. The thriving dairy industry has provided steady employment to 5,000 young people from the region, further cementing its role as a critical economic driver. The sale of pedha at pilgrimage sites within and beyond Maharashtra has created a sustainable source of income for many, transforming the livelihoods of local farmers and workers alike.
This remarkable growth in the production and demand for Kunthalgiri khawa is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the farmers and the favorable conditions in the region that make khawa production a success. The GI tag is not just a recognition of the product’s excellence but also a symbol of pride for the Kunthalgiri community. It represents the area’s heritage, craftsmanship, and a promising future where Kunthalgiri khawa continues to thrive, both locally and internationally.
