Guwahati: Meghalaya's prized Lakadong turmeric has been given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Registrar of Geographical Indication in Chennai, the state government announced on Wednesday.
Renowned for its exceptional quality and high curcumin content (68 to 75 per cent), Lakadong turmeric is predominantly found in the Lakadong area of Jaintia Hills and the GI tag signifies its unique geographical origin.
Meghalaya Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, taking to X (formerly Twitter), expressed her delight at the recognition, emphasizing the potential benefits to farmers in terms of marketing opportunities.
She wrote that the turmeric's recognition with a GI tag signifies its global standing "as one of the world's finest varieties." The minister thanked the stakeholders who played a pivotal role in securing the designation.
Approximately 14,000 farmers from 43 villages in the Lakadong area are currently engaged in cultivating this variety of turmeric on 1,753 hectares of land. Grown organically without the use of fertilizers, it is also said to offer remarkable health benefits.
The GI tag is expected to provide these farmers with a unique selling point, enabling them to command better market prices for their produce.
Minister Lyngdoh stated, "With this recognition, Lakadong village rightfully claims its place as the birthplace of the most exquisite turmeric." The Lakadong turmeric, representing an organic farming revolution, traces its roots to Padma Shri Trinity Saioo's initiative in Mulieh village.
This remarkable achievement follows five years since the launch of Mission Lakadong in 2018, underscoring the sustained efforts to secure the GI tag for the Meghalaya product.
Alongside Lakadong turmeric, other indigenous Meghalayan products, including Garo Dakmanda (a traditional dress), Larnai pottery, and Garo Chubitchi (an alcoholic beverage), were also given GI tags.
Garo Dakmanda, an ankle-length lower garment woven by hand, forms an integral part of the traditional attire of Garo women; Chubitchi, a rice-based fermented drink of the Garo community, is commonly consumed during feasts and ceremonies, while Larnai pottery, crafted from black clay in Larnai village, represents an art form passed down through generations.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma affirmed that the government will try to get GI Tags for more indigenous products specific to the state.
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