New Delhi, July 10 -- In the dry, dusty landscapes of Rajasthan and its neighbouring regions, the khejri tree, known by many names, including Prosopis cineraria, shami, jand and ghaf, is more than just a fixture of the terrain. It is a symbol of sustenance, belief and resilience.

Believed to have originated in Rajasthan's Thar Desert, the hardy tree can withstand soaring temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius and thrive with minimal water, making it a vital ally for desert communities. Its long, slender pods, known as sangri, are dried and cooked into the beloved local dish ker sangri, a tangy, spiced preparation rich in nutrition, especially during times of drought when fresh produce is scarce.

Now, there are efforts to secure a Geog...