GI tag to Manipur black rice, Gorakhpur terracotta and Kovilpatti kadalai mittai

 Chak-Hao, the black rice of Manipur and the Gorakhpur Terracotta has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

 Chak-Hao:

Chak-Hao is scented glutinous rice which has been in cultivation in Manipur over centuries, is characterised by its special aroma. 

It is normally eaten during community feasts and is served as Chak-Hao here.

Chak-Hao has also been used as part of traditional medicine. 

This rice takes the longest cooking time of 40-45 minutes due to the presence of a fibrous bran layer and higher crude fibre content. 

At present, the traditional system of Chak-Hao cultivation is practised in some pockets of Manipur. 

The cultivation of this rice incorporates both, direct sowing and transplantation method.

 Terracotta Work:

The Terracotta work of Gorakhpur is a centuries-old traditional art form, where the potters make various animal figures like horses, elephants, camel, goat, ox, etc. with hand-applied ornamentation. 

Some of the major products of craftsmanship include the Hauda elephants, Mahawatdar horse, deer, camel, five-faced Ganesha, singled-faced Ganesha, elephant table, chandeliers, hanging bells etc. The entire work is done with bare hands and artisans use natural colour which stays for a long time. 

There are more than 1,000 varieties of Terracotta work designed by the local craftsmen. 

What is Geographical Indication (GI) tag?

GI is an indication used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess the qualities or reputation that are inherent in the products due to that origin. It is used for natural, agricultural and manufactured goods.

The Department for promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, provides the GI tag in India

Benefits of registration of geographical indications:

It confers legal protection to Geographical Indications in India

Prevents unauthorised use of a Registered Geographical Indication by others

It provides legal protection to Indian Geographical Indications which in turn boost exports.

It promotes the economic prosperity of producers of goods produced in a geographical territory.