.There are two main categories of basmati rice rice export from India that are cultivated in India and Pakistan, and numerous different varieties (approximately eight to twelve+) exist within each category; the two categories of basmati rice are as follows:
1) Traditional Basmati Rice.
These are the original, pure bred traditional basmati rice varieties grown naturally. They are long slender grains with an aromatic smell and flavorful taste. Some examples of this would be:
- Basmati 370
- Type 3 (or Dehraduni basmati)
2) Hybrid/Improved Basmati Rice.
These types have been produced through modern agricultural practices and ensure higher yields while providing good disease resistance but they have different aromas than true basmati; however, they are still considered as superior quality products. Each of these hybrids is distinctly different based on breeding program designations; examples include:
- Pusa Basmati 1121 — most commonly grown Basmati variety exported
- Pusa Basmati 1509
- 1718 Basmati Rice