KAJI NEMU (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Govt Policies)

Context: Recently, the Assam government declared the GI-tagged ‘Kaji Nemu’ (Citrus Limon) as the

State Fruit.

Kaji Nemu

• About: It  is a tangy fruit native to the Assam state of India.
• Shape and Size: It is elongated and oblong compared to other lemon varieties.

oThe oval-shaped Kaji Nemu is a lot juicier than other lemon varieties.

• Traditional Use: It is popular for its unique aroma and health benefits..
• Export and Culinary Importance: The fruit had been exported to several countries, including to the Middle East.

oWith its unique aroma and antioxidant properties, the Assam lemon enriched the local cuisines.

oKaji Nemu is majorly used in culinary and commercial purposes, and it is extensively used for its medicinal properties.

• Cultivation and Availability: It is grown in almost all the districts of the state and is available throughout the year.
• Nutritional Value: The fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients, boosting health.
• Citrus Varieties: Assam has as many as 16 species and 52 varieties hybrids of citrus.

Geographical Indications (GI)

• It means: A name or a sign given to certain products that relate to a specific geographical location or origins like a region, town, or country.
• Governed and directed by: World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
• Administered by: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999. 
• Issued by: The Geographical Indications Registry (Chennai) under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• First product with GI tag: Darjeeling tea in the year 2004-05.
• Validity: 10 years following which it can be renewed.