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(THE GIST OF PIB) Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

(JANUARY-2024)

Seven products from Odisha, ranging from the Similipal Kai chutney made with red weaver ants to the embroidered Kapdaganda shawl, have bagged the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

It is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
This is typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts and industrial products.
The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
This GI tag is valid for 10 years following which it can be renewed.

It is woven and embroidered by the women of the Dongria Kondh tribe, a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) in the Niyamgiri hills in Odisha’s Rayagada and Kalahandi districts.
The shawl reflects the rich tribal heritage of the Dongria Kondhs.
The shawl is worn by both men and women and the Dongrias give it to their family members as a token of love and affection.

It is one of the oldest tribal art forms, is also known as Idital.
The artworks are famous for their beauty, aesthetics, ritualistic association and iconography.
It belongs to the Lanjia Saura community, a PVTG largely residing in the Rayagada district. These paintings are in the form of exterior murals painted on the mud walls of homes.

The black-coloured rice variety, also known as the ‘Prince of Rice’, is famous for its aroma, taste, texture and nutritional value.
As the rice grains resemble cumin seeds, it is also called Kala Jeera.
Its consumption helps in increasing haemoglobin levels and improves metabolism in the body.

It is known for its prickly thorns on the stems and the whole plant.
The green and round fruits contain more seeds as compared to other genotypes.
It is famous for its unique taste and relatively short quick cooking time.
The plants are resistant to major insects and can be grown with minimal pesticide.

It is a natural sweetener extracted from date palm trees and has its origin in the Gajapati district.
Traditionally, the jaggery is prepared in a trapezoidal form called ‘Patali Gur’ and is organic by nature. It is dark brown and has a unique taste.