In a historic moment for Arunachal Pradesh, three distinct products from the state, supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the Arunachal Pradesh State Government, have been showcased at the IITF.
These products, namely Arunachal Pradesh Khamti Rice (GI registration No. 803), Arunachal Pradesh Yak Churpi (GI registration No. 809), and Arunachal Pradesh Tangsa Textile (GI registration No. 810), now stand as certified ambassadors of the unique cultural and traditional heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
Key to this achievement is Padmashri Dr. Rajnikant, the National GI Technical Facilitator and Expert, who played a pivotal role in spearheading the registration process for these remarkable products. Notably, Khamti Rice and Yak Churpi mark the first Agriculture and Food products from Arunachal Pradesh to receive the esteemed GI certification. Tangsa Textile, the second textile product of the region, has also been acknowledged with this prestigious recognition.
The Geographical Indication tag serves as a testament to the distinctive traditional knowledge embedded in a specific region and community, providing protection and fostering opportunities for generating livelihoods and income. This recognition ensures the authenticity and quality of the products, enhancing their marketability both nationally and internationally.
Khamti Rice, a unique and chewy sticky rice variety cultivated in the Namsai region of Arunachal Pradesh by Khampti tribal farmers, holds a special place in local culinary traditions, contributing to the preparation of various traditional delicacies.
Arunachal Pradesh Yak Churpi, a fermented cottage cheese-like product, is crafted from raw skimmed and fermented yak milk of the indigenous Arunachali yak breed. Driven by its uniqueness and the potential for the socio-economic upliftment of producers, ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang, led by Director Dr. Mihir Sarkar, played a crucial role in registering this product. Dr. Sarkar envisions the GI tag for Yak Churpi as a boon for yak pastoralists, enhancing accessibility, authenticity, and marketability.
Tangsa Textile, representing the traditional craft of the Tangsa tribe in Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh, stands out for its exotic designs and vibrant colors, reflecting the cultural richness of the region. The event, taking place from November 14-27, 2023, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, revolves around the theme 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: United by Trade,' emphasizing the idea that the world is one family.
Representatives Umachanti Mantaw Mitti and Jyotika Mantaw are presenting Khamti Rice, while Dr. K. Mepfhuo and M. Phunchu Namje from ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang, are showcasing Yak Churpi. Notung Kimsing and Momi Tikhak are representing Tangsa Textile at IITF, 2023, highlighting the rich cultural diversity and economic potential of Arunachal Pradesh on a global stage.
