Andaman Islands have been regarded as a heaven for tropical biodiversity as it harbours significant native diversity with potential for present as well as future use. For decades, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI), Sri Vijaya Puram has been at the forefront of uplifting island stakeholders, while safeguarding native biodiversity. A shining example of this mission is its pioneering work on a rare, endemic species- Garcinia dhanikhariensis, by Dr. Pooja Bohra and Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Senior Scientists, ICAR-CIARI. Studies revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds including antioxidants, anthocyanins and hydroxycitric acid in it and the species is being promoted as a novel fruit crop in the islands. To give an identity to this fruit at national and global level, they christened it as ‘Andaman Kokum’. To maximize the benefits of consumption of this unique fruit, value-added products such as Andaman Kokum Syrup, rind candy and dehydrated rind were developed.
The serenity of the islands makes it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations for the domestic as well as international tourists. These products are in line with promoting agro-ecotourism in the Andaman Islands by utilizing unique native diversity of the region apart from providing healthier options to the consumers. Andaman Kokum is micro-endemic species requiring conservation and by utilizing the fruit rind for preparation of value-added products, dual objectives of biodiversity conservation and employment generation to local youth were addressed.
To ensure these products reach the masses, ICAR-CIARI transferred the technical know-how in December 2025 to an educated youth, Ms. Sneha Horo from the South Andaman Island. She along with her friend Ms. M. Venni, established - Island’s Ras and Root, a firm registered under UDYAM and FSSAI under the technical guidance from the Institute. Andaman Kokum products were officially launched at the ICAR-CIARI’s Kisan Mela in February 2026 apart from showcasing those at the Island Food Festival-2026- a popular event in the islands. These unique products received overwhelming response from the consumers and were the cynosure of the visitors at both the events. The popularity did not stop here and the entrepreneurs kept getting orders over phone and direct contacts, though they do not own any outlet so far. During one fruiting season, the entrepreneurs generated revenue of Rs. 47,255/- with a B:C ratio of 1.71, which is expected to rise in coming years.
The novelty of the products lies in the use of native species, which is its USP. The only hurdle in scaling up of the products is the inadequate quantities of raw material available for processing due to its rarity. Nevertheless, this is providing advantage of Limited Edition product to them for now. Considering the huge popularity of these products, ICAR-CIARI is providing planting materials of these species to the island farmers and many farmers have taken up its cultivation. This initiative exemplifies ICAR-CIARI’s commitment under the leadership of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Act.) to conserving island biodiversity, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating livelihood opportunities—while bringing distinctive island flavours to both residents and tourists.