The northeastern region of India is known for its unique and diverse agricultural produce, which is an integral part of the region's culture and tradition. The use of the GI tag for these products will not only protect them from misuse and imitation but also help in promoting and preserving the region's rich cultural heritage.
The move is aimed at promoting and protecting traditional agricultural practices and products in the region and will provide recognition to the unique qualities and reputation of NER agricultural products.
The 13 produces for which the GI tag has been authorized are Arunachal Orange, Tezpur Litchi, and Karbi Anglong Ginger of Assam, Kachai Lemon and ‘Chak-Hao’ Black Rice of Manipur, Khasi Mandarin orange and Memang Narang orange of Meghalaya, Mizo Chilli of Mizoram, Naga Tree Tomato and Naga Sweet Cucumber of Nagaland, Queen Pineapple of Tripura, and Sikkim Large Cardamom and Dalle Khursani Chilli of Sikkim.
The North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC), under the DoNER Ministry, will forward the 800 user authorization applications for the usage of these products from the eight NE states to the Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai. This move will not only protect the unique identity and quality of these products but also create employment opportunities for local communities.
The authorization process will enhance the competitiveness of the farmers in domestic and international markets, creating opportunities for increased income and livelihood. The move has been welcomed by renowned GI expert Dr Rajni Kant Dwivedi, who has emphasized the importance of Northeastern Region (NER) specific GI products and called for a comprehensive approach to promote these.
The GI tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are attributable to that origin. It provides legal protection to the producers of these products and helps in preventing the use of fake or imitation products.
