A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign/mark applied to items that originate in a particular geographical region and feature characteristics or a reputation unique to that region. A geographical indicator right entitles the holder to prohibit the indication from being used by a third party whose product does not meet relevant requirements. In India, GI’s are covered by Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

 

 

New rules pertaining to the GI of Goods were released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) on August 26, 2020. The new amendment has not just simplified the Geographical Indications Rules but also focus on authorized user registrations for GI.

 

Below are five GIs from North-East India registered between April – 2021 and March 2022.

 

 

 

 

 

Mizoram, a state in North-East India, is a treasure trove of ginger varieties, with up to eight indigenous kinds growing there since ancient times. Mizo gingers locally referred to as “Sawhthing”, are known for their pungency, high gingerol (1.23 to 1.25 percent), volatile oil content (1.45 to 1.80 percent), and lower crude fiber content when compared to varieties found in North East India. Another kind of ginger, popularly referred to as “black ginger”, with bluish-black rhizomes demands a premium price due to its curative and therapeutic capabilities and is produced commercially and for personal use by farmers.

 

 

Farmers attribute these indigenous gingers' pungency and distinct flavor to Mizoram's agro-climatic circumstances. Ginger is cultivated on slopes up to 2000 meters in height and on plains, and under the shadow of bamboo and other plants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Red Cherry Pepper (Capsicum annum var cerasiforme), locally known in Sikkim as “Dalle Khorsani”, is well-known for its distinct taste and intense pungency. Scoville heat units (SHU) vary from 100,000 to 350,000 for this chilli (Scoville Heat Units). It is a lucrative cash crop planted across the state due to its many commercial applications. It is a perennial crop with pods ranging from tiny to medium. When completely mature, Dalle Khorsani is about the size of a cherry and has a vivid red color.

 

 

Additionally, one can make pickles, pastes, powders, and dry chillies with the same. This chilli's distinguishing feature is its intense taste. Apart from ‘capsaicin’, which gives it its pungent flavor, it includes carotenoids and phenolic compounds and is utilized as a natural pigment and anti-oxidant. Additionally, this chilli possesses a plethora of therapeutic benefits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Historically, Cucumber was grown as a mixed crop by Naga farmers in their 'Jhum' fields, mainly during the Kharif season (April-May). Along with paddy, this is predominantly a cash crop. However, "off-season" cucumbers from several districts of Nagaland, particularly from the Mokokchung district, have achieved considerable appeal throughout the state and have established a trend among the region's farmers. Depending on the soil type, certain tribes, such as the ‘Konyak’, cultivate cucumbers year-round using the seed-to-seed technique. Numerous indigenous cucumber cultivars that are delicate, juicy, and sweet are cultivated across Nagaland. Naga Cucumbers are a fruit distinct in flavor, form, and size from other varieties found across India.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hathei chilli, is prized for its brilliant red color and taste in Manipur. Hathei, a chilli type found chiefly in the state's Ukhrul region, is considered a 'God's gift' by the residents of Sirarakhong hamlet, where it is grown. Due to its popularity, a festival is held each year to promote the chilli type.

 

 

According to legend, the chilli variety was found by Sirarakhong's elders while hunting in the jungle. Additionally, the community has a traditional song devoted to Hathei in which the chilli is linked to the Tangkhul Naga tribe's cherished shawl known as 'Khuilang.'

 

 

The Hathei chilli is an excellent antioxidant and has significant calcium and vitamin C. It has a color value of 164, according to the American Spice Trade Association (ASTA). Typically, the extractable color of chili is given in ASTA values.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This orange variety is indigenous to Manipur's Tamenglong area, commonly known as “The Orange Bowl of Manipur”. The oranges are brilliant orange in color and weigh an average of 232.76 grams. Tamenglong oranges are highly juicy, containing 45 percent juice, and are an excellent source of vitamin C. Tamenglong orange / Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) is a rare crop found exclusively in Manipur's Tamenglong area. The plant is a perennial evergreen member of the Rutaceae family native to the subtropics.

 

 

Tamenglong oranges are rich in vitamin A, B, C, and phosphorus. Oranges have long been regarded as an essential component of a healthy and delectable diet. Citrus flavors are among the most popular in the world, and it is becoming more apparent that citrus is not only delicious but also beneficial to one's health. Consumption of citrus fruits like the Tamenglong orange provides a variety of nutritional advantages.

 

 

Consumption of this fruit has been demonstrated to help prevent and treat ailments such as cardiovascular disease since it is high in potassium and promotes heart health. It contains anti-cancer phytochemicals. It is high in vitamin C, protecting cells by neutralizing free radicals. Additionally, it also prevents the occurrence of joint disorders.