Salem Sago

Salem Sago, locally known as javvarisi, is a cornerstone of Salem district’s agrarian and industrial landscape, earning it the title of the “Land of Sago.” Cultivated from tapioca roots that yield an impressive 25–30 tonnes per hectare—well above national and global averages—this premium starch forms over 80 % of India’s sago output. A cooperative powerhouse, Sagoserve (est. 1981) has organized more than 400 tapioca-processing units in Salem, Erode, Namakkal, and Dharmapuri, ensuring quality control and market access.

The award of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2023 not only legally protects the Salem Sago name but also elevates its international market potential, empowers farmers, stabilizes prices, and promotes authentic branding . Low in calories (~310 kcal/100 g), gluten-free, and adaptable to multiple culinary uses—from sabudana khichdi to kheer—Salem Sago is both nutritionally valuable and economically transformative, embodying regional pride and heritage while driving rural prosperity.