Round Red chilles from Paramakudi

The Ramanathapuram Mundu Chilli, the round cherry-shaped, packed with around 100 seeds has pungency around 40000 SHU (Scoville Heat Units) is an unique variety which is internationally recognized as the finest quality, is produced by 6,000 farmers over an area of 50,000 acres inRamanathapuram District. It is the most preferred chilli for domestic purpose. In the Ramanathapuram District the chilli growers has an unorganized auction practice, but it ensures the farmers are received the best price for their produce. This auction system seems to be very simple but it is similar to the modern sealed tender system.

 Introduction of architectural, scientific and mechanical solutions related to techniques of bulk handling and retail packing such as vacuum packing, nitrogen gas flush packing etc., has to be done. In this regard it has to be noted that Tamilnadu Agricultural University, Paramakudi is having a Research Centre to improve Ramanathapuram Mundu Chilli. The first and foremost activity to improve the marketability of RamanathapuramMundu Chilli is to secure Geographical Index (GI) for it. The Geographical Index will create an identity for this unique chilli which wins consumer preference and makes the consumer ready to pay a premium price forRamanathapuram Mundu Chilli.