LAKADONG TURMERIC (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

News-CRUX-10     7th December 2023        
QEP Pocket Notes

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).
QEP Pocket Notes