Odisha receives GI tag for ‘Kandhamal Haldi’
The famous Kandhamal Haldi or turmeric of Odisha obtained Geographical Indications (GI) tag from the union government on Monday.
In December last year, the Kandhamal Apex Spices Association for Marketing, based at the district headquarter town of Phulbani, had moved for registration of ‘Kandhamal Haldi’ which was accepted under sub-section (1) of Section 13 of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
This turmeric is used both for cosmetics and spices. Not only that the Kandhamal Haldi is also famous for its healing properties. It is the prime cash crop among tribal people in the district.
Apart from the Kandhamal Haldi, as many as 15 products from Odisha have already got GI tags. The products include Kotpad’s handloom fabric, Konark stonework, Sambalpur Bandhasaree, Bamkei Saree, Habaspur saree, Odisha Ikat saree, Khandua, Gopalpur’s Tussar cloth, Pipili appliqué works, Pattachitra, Brahmapur Pattasaree, and Joda and Ganjam’s Ketaki flower.
GI tag is the name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods have a special quality and established a reputation.
