Introduction

• Seven products from Odisha, including traditional foods and handicrafts, have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

About GI Tag

• A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
• Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
• India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
• GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
• The tag stands valid for 10 years.

Odisha’s GI Tagged Products

[1] Kapdaganda Shawl

• Cultural Emblem: Woven by the Dongria Kondh tribe, this shawl is a symbol of heritage and affection, embroidered with significant colors representing nature and emotions.
• Symbol of Commitment: Often presented during courtship, it signifies formal commitment and is a testament to the tribe’s rich textile legacy.

[2] Lanjia Saura Painting (Idital)

• Tribal Artistry: Belonging to the Lanjia Saura community, these murals painted on mud walls are not just art but a spiritual expression of gratitude and well-being.
• Diverse Representations: With 62 types for various occasions, these paintings reflect the community’s deep connection with nature and their ancestors.

[3] Koraput Kala Jeera Rice

• Aromatic Heritage: Known as the ‘Prince of Rice’, this black-coloured variety is celebrated for its taste and nutritional benefits, preserved by tribal farmers for centuries.
• Health and Tradition: Beyond its culinary appeal, the rice is intertwined with tales of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

[4] Similipal Kai Chutney

• Forest Delicacy: Made from red weaver ants found in the Similipal forests, this chutney is a traditional tribal delicacy packed with nutritional and medicinal value.
• Sustainable Livelihood: The preparation and sale of this chutney provide a source of income for the local tribes, reflecting a harmonious relationship with nature.

[5] Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal

• Distinctive Flavour: Known for its prickly thorns and unique taste, this brinjal variety is a culinary favorite, cultivated extensively in Nayagarh district.
• Agricultural Pride: With a history of cultivation dating back nearly a century, this brinjal represents the agricultural ingenuity and tradition of the region.

[6] Odisha Khajuri Guda

• Natural Sweetener: Extracted from date palm trees, this jaggery is an organic delight, known for its dark brown color and unique taste.
• Cultural Sweetness: Traditionally prepared in a trapezoidal form, it’s not just a sweetener but a part of the cultural fabric of Odisha.

[7] Dhenkanal Magji

• Cheese-Based Sweet: Originating from buffalo milk cheese, this sweet is known for its distinct characteristics and nutritional value.
• Legacy of Livelihood: Reflecting the region’s history of buffalo rearing and dairy production, this sweet contributes to the livelihood of thousands.

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