Two endemic varieties of paddy ‘Palakkadan Matta’ and ‘Njavara’ raised exclusively in Palakkad district are given geographical registry by the Central Government. Yet another effort of the State Government to protect farmers from the evils of globalization has thus borne fruit. Palakkadan Matta is an export variety which is preferred by Malayalees all over the world, ‘Njavara’ variety is of medicinal quality and it is highly valued. ‘Geographical registry’   will help to retain the traditional practice of cultivating these varieties exclusive to the region. Patent hunters will be kept at bay.