Uttarakhand Gets 18 GI Tags In 1 Day, These Foods Made The List

In a first, Uttarakhand has been awarded a whopping 18 GI tags on one day, a historic moment for the state and its cultural offerings. A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a recognition granted to products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that place of origin. This helps in preserving the traditional methods of production and maintaining the distinctiveness of regional products in the market

The recently awarded 18 Geographical Indication certificates for Uttarakhand encompass a diverse range of products. These include Uttarakhand Chaulai, Jhangora, Manduwa, Red Rice, Almora Lakhori Chilli, Berinag Tea, Burans Sharbat, Ramnagar Nainital Litchi, Ramgarh Peach, Malta, Pahari Tor, Gahat, Kala Bhatt, Bicchubooti fabric, Nainital candle, Kumaoni coloured Pichhoda, Chamoli Ramman mask, and Likhai wood carving, as mentioned in the official statement by the Uttarakhand government. These are in addition to other previously awarded tags, bringing the total up to 27. 

  • Uttarakhand Chaulai: A local term for the Amaranth grain Uttarakhand Chaulai is known for its nutritional richness and potential health benefits.
  • Jhangora: A local millet also known as Barnyard Millet, this speciality is often used as a rice substitute and is appreciated for its versatility in culinary applications.
  • Manduwa: A type of Finger millet that’s grown locally in rain-fed conditions in Uttarakhand, it’s of great agricultural significance to the state. 
  • Red Rice: Known as Ghadwali red rice or Laal Chawal, this nutritious rice is usually grown in the Purola region of Uttarakhand and has firm texture and a nutty flavour.
  • Almora Lakhori Chilli: Renowned for its fiery flavour and its distinct yellow colour, Almora Lakhori Chilli adds a kick of spice to local dishes and is thought to have many health benefits too.
  • Berinag Tea: An orthodox black tea from the region's tea plantations, it’s highly sought after and boasts a unique taste profile.
  • Burans Sharbat: A refreshing beverage made from the vibrant Burans (Rhododendron) flower, Burans Sharbat is a popular local drink known for its floral aroma.
  • Ramnagar Nainital Litchi: The luscious Ramnagar Nainital Litchi, grown in the region, is celebrated for its sweet and succulent taste.
  • Ramgarh Peach: With its juicy and flavourful profile, this is a prized fruit representing the many rich orchards that are found across Uttarakhand.
  • Malta: Uttarakhand's Malta, a type of winter orange, is cherished for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits, making it a popular choice among locals.
  • Pahadi Tor: A local variant of toor dal, Pahadi Tor is grown on the mid hills of Uttarakhand, it’s valued for its low glycemic index and nutritional benefits.
  • Gahat: The local name for horse gram, Gahat is a flavourful and nutritious type of dal which is especially popular in the cold weather.
  • Kala Bhatt: A unique variety of black soybeans, kala bhatt is cultivated indigenously and known for its diverse uses and high protein and fibre content.

Having the GI tag for all these indigenous products is a big win for the agricultural community of Uttarakhand and will provide more opportunities for local farmers and artisans of the state, both to grow their own livelihood and to protect the cultural heritage of their communities.