GIPRODUCTS

Munsyari Rajma

Munsyari Rajma, also known as Rajmash or Rajma, is a kidney bean grown in the northwestern Himalayan hills of Uttarakhand, India. Named after Munsyari, a group of villages in the Pithoragarh district, it is a high-value crop grown at altitudes between 1600 and 2700 metres. The unique geographical and climatic conditions of the region give this bean its excellent flavour and texture.

  • The beans are known for their exceptional cooking quality and require 25 to 30 minutes less cooking time than other varieties.
  • The mineral-rich soil, the altitude and the special microclimate contribute to its unique flavour and texture.
  • Munsyari Rajma is highly nutritious, rich in protein, fibre, carbohydrates and minerals and has a low glycaemic index, making it a healthy option for diabetics.
  • It contains molybdenum, which supports the detoxification of  sulphites.
  • Farmers grow different landraces that produce beans in different shapes, sizes and colours. The most common variety is a creeping pole bean that grows well under organic rainfed conditions.
  • The beans are usually white in colour, expand significantly when soaked and cooked and have a delicate flavour.
  • Women play an important role in cultivation: 80% of women in Pithoragarh are involved in this process.
  • Munsyari Rajma is an important part of the local economy and provides a livelihood for many people in the region.