From Farmer Innovation to National Recognition

Developed by biotech kisan farmer Sh Ishaq Ali, Abu Saunf-440 is a bold and green-seeded fennel variety with strong yield, distinct aroma, and adaptability.

• High yield potential with more than 80 umbels per plant.
• Disease resistance and robust adaptability.
• Unique aroma, lustrous green color, and taste.
• Cultivated over 5,000 hectares in Sirohi district.
• Recognized as a specialty saunf fetching premium prices across India.

Distinctiveness and scientific validation

The Biotech Kisan Hub for Aspirational District of Sirohi identified and rigorously evaluated Abu Saunf-440 to establish it as a distinct, uniform, and novel variety.

Comprehensive field data, breeders' seeds, and aromatic compound profiling confirmed superior levels of Anethole, Fenchone, and Methyl Chavicol compared with fennel grown in other parts of Rajasthan.

Legal recognition under PPV&FR Act

The registration of Abu Saunf-440 marks a historic recognition of farmer-led innovation in India. Developed by progressive biotech farmer Ishaq Ali, the variety received legal protection under the PPV&FR Act, 2001.

Published in the Plant Variety Journal of India, the milestone secures intellectual property rights for the farmer and sets a benchmark for grassroots innovation in agriculture.

The journey to Jabal

The initiative supported high-quality commercial seed production and distribution of Abu Saunf-440, popularizing the improved variety through an adaptive on-farm seed production model resilient to climatic variability.

It culminated in the branding of premium-quality saunf under “Jabal”, with commercial visibility supported through an online sales platform.

Impact highlights

• 20+ million seedlings produced.
• 15–20 quintals seed annually.
• 4,500–6,000 acres coverage.
• Training for farmers and tribal communities.

A scientific seed production model ensured genetic purity, climate resilience, and scalable adoption across districts.

A step toward prosperity

• Legal ownership of innovation.
• Access to premium markets.
• Increased income opportunities.
• Regional pride and identity.

This is where innovation meets livelihood transformation for Ishaq Ali and the farming communities of Sirohi.