GI TAG (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Government Policies)

Context: Recently, Churpi was granted the Geographical Indication tag, and in a similar vein, two other distinctive products from the state, Khaw Tai (Khamti rice) and Tangsa textile, have also secured GI certifications.

Yak Churpi

• Origin: Churpi is a dairy product crafted from the milk of the native Arunachali yak breed.
• Brokpas: This dairy product is produced by Brokpas, a group of tribal yak pastoralists. They follow a seasonal migration pattern, taking their yaks to high-altitude areas (10,000 ft and higher) during summers.
• Yak Habitat: The distinctive Arunachali yak breed is primarily found in the West Kameng and Tawang districts of the state.

Khaw Tai Rice

• About: The Khaw Tai rice variety is a sticky rice type grown in the Namsai region, primarily by traditional Khampti tribal farmers.
• Khautoum: When Khaw Tai rice is steamed, rolled, and wrapped in a leaf, it is known as khautoum. A related variation is the ball-shaped khautek, made by roasting sticky Khaw Tai rice mixed with molasses. 

Tangsa Tribe Textile Products

• The textile products crafted by the Tangsa tribe in Changlang district are renowned for their unique designs and vibrant colors.

GI Tag

• About: It is a symbol used on items that come from a particular geographical area and have qualities or a reputation linked to that place of origin.
• Nodal Ministry: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Tenure: 10 Years
• Regulated By: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999.
• India’s First GI Product: Darjeeling Tea (2004-05)