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India boasts a rich and diverse culinary landscape that encompasses a myriad of flavours, textures, and culinary traditions. Amidst this culinary tapestry, the Geographical Indication (GI) tag has emerged as a significant aspect, weaving together heritage, tradition, and the unique identity of regional products. The GI tag, a symbol of authenticity and quality, serves to protect the distinctiveness of products associated with a specific geographical location.
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Indian sweets, also known as Mithai, hold a special place in the hearts of the people, serving as an inseparable part of celebrations, festivals, and daily life. The diversity of these sweets is reflective of India's cultural mosaic, with each region boasting its unique concoctions that have been passed down through generations. As these sweets traverse boundaries and find admirers globally, the GI tag becomes a crucial mechanism to uphold their origin and traditional preparation methods.
Among the diverse land of Indian sweets here are seven popular Indian sweets that has received their GI tags in various years.
Mihidana
Mihidana, a delectable Indian sweet hailing from the culinary haven of West Bengal, has earned the prestigious GI tag in 2017. Recognized for its unique texture and delightful flavour, Mihidana captivates taste buds with its intricate preparation of gram flour vermicelli soaked in sugar syrup. This cherished sweet, now protected by the GI tag, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Bardhaman, West Bengal. Ensuring its authenticity and preserving the traditional artistry behind its creation.
Silao Khaja
Silao Khaja, a delectable Indian sweet, has earned the prestigious GI tag in 2018, recognizing its unique origin and traditional craftsmanship. Hailing from Nalanda district in Bihar, this crispy, flaky delight is made by intertwining layers of wheat dough, frying to golden perfection, and then delicately sweetening it. The GI tag ensures authenticity and preserves the cultural heritage associated with Silao Khaja, making it a symbol of regional pride and a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Indian sweets.
Bebinca
Bebinca, a traditional Goan dessert, has earned the prestigious GI tag in July 2023, signifying its unique cultural and regional significance. Comprising 16 to 20 layers, this rich, layered pudding boasts a heavenly combination of ingredients like coconut milk, flour, eggs, and nutmeg. The meticulous preparation reflects Goan culinary craftsmanship, making Bebinca a sought-after delicacy. Now, with its GI tag, this delectable Indian sweet stands as a testament to Goan heritage, ensuring its authenticity and protecting its distinctive identity on a global culinary stage.
Joynagar Moa
Joynagar Moa, a cherished Bengali sweet, has earned the prestigious GI tag in 2015, solidifying its cultural and culinary significance. Hailing from Joynagar, West Bengal, this delectable treat is meticulously crafted with date palm jaggery, khoi or puffed rice and clarified butter, embodying the region's culinary heritage. The GI tag ensures the authenticity and uniqueness of Joynagar Moa, making it a symbol of tradition and quality. Indulging in this sweet delight offers a taste of Bengal's rich cultural tapestry and a journey into the heart of its culinary artistry.
Dharwad Peda
Dharwad Peda, a delectable Indian sweet, has earned the prestigious GI tag in 2007, signifying its unique origin and traditional preparation in Dharwad, Karnataka. This rich and velvety confection boasts a distinctive caramelized flavour and a granulated texture, setting it apart from other sweets. Crafted from khoa, sugar, and choice spices, Dharwad Peda showcases the culinary artistry passed down through generations. Its GI tag not only celebrates its delightful taste but also preserves the cultural heritage embedded in every bite of this iconic Indian treat.
Rosogolla
The origination of this dish is quite in a tussle between the two states of West Bengal and Odisha. However, to conclude this tussle, the Odia and Bengal version of rasgullas are quite different to each other, the Odia version of Rasogolla is called Pahala Rasagolla and the version hailing from Bengal is quite simple in making and is known as just Rasogolla. In the year 2017, Bengal received the GI tag for Rasogolla and two years later in 2019, Odisha received its GI tag for Pahala Rasagolla.
Chak Hao Kheer
Chak Hao Kheer, a delectable Indian sweet, has earned the prestigious GI tag in the year 20144, signifying its unique connection to a specific region. This aromatic rice pudding hails from Manipur, where the exquisite black rice, locally known as Chak Hao, transforms into a luscious, purple-hued dessert. The GI tag ensures the authenticity and distinctiveness of this culinary treasure. Infused with cultural richness, Chak Hao Kheer tantalizes taste buds with its velvety texture, subtly nutty flavour, and history that resonates with the vibrant traditions of Manipur.
