LAKADONG TURMERIC (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: Recently, Meghalaya's Lakadong turmeric has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Lakadong Turmeric

• About: It is renowned globally as one of the finest turmeric varieties, boasting a curcumin content ranging from 6.8 to 7.5 percent.
• Organic Cultivation Practices: This turmeric variant distinguishes itself by its darker hue, owing to its cultivation through organic methods without the use of fertilizers.
• Geographic Specificity: Indigenous to the Lakadong area of Jaintia Hills, this turmeric variety is characterized by its high curcumin content, setting it apart from other turmeric types.
• Meghalaya's Diverse GI Products: Meghalaya proudly boasts other GI products, including Garo Dakmanda (traditional dress), Larnai pottery, and Garo Chubitchi (alcoholic beverage), each recognized for their unique cultural and regional significance.

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.
• The World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) also regulates Geographical Indications.
• India’s First GI Product: Darjeeling Tea (2004-05).