The Geographical Indication (GI) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has recently registered 4 new GIs.
These latest additions to the list of registered GIs are:
- Palani Panchamirtham from Tamil Nadu,
- Tawlhlohpuan and Mizo Puanchei from Mizoram and
- Tirur Betel leaf from Kerala
Geographical Indication (GI):
GI is an indication used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
- Such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness which is essentially attributable to its origin in that defined geographical locality.
Palani Panchamirtham:
- It is an abishega Prasadam, from Palani Town in Dindigul District of Tamil Nadu.
- It is one of the main offerings in the Abisegam of Lord Dhandayuthapani Swamy, the presiding deity of Arulmigu Dhandayuthapaniswamy Temple, situated in Palani Hills.
- It is a combination of five natural substances, namely, banana, jaggery sugar, cow ghee, honey and cardamom in a definite proportion.
- It is prepared in a natural method without addition of any preservatives or artificial ingredients and is well known for its religious fervour and gaiety.
- This is the first time a temple ‘prasadam’ from Tamil Nadu has been bestowed with the GI tag.
Tawlhlohpuan:
- It is a medium to heavy, compactly woven, good quality fabric from Mizoram.
- It is known for warp yarns, warping, weaving & intricate designs that are made by hand.
- Tawlhloh, in Mizo language, means ‘to stand firm or not to move backward’.
- Tawlhlohpuan, which holds high significance in the Mizo society, is produced throughout the state of Mizoram.
- Aizawl and Thenzawl towns are the main centres of production.
Mizo Puanchei:
- It is a colourful Mizo shawl, from Mizoram, which is considered as the most colourful among the Mizo textiles.
- It is an essential possession for every Mizo lady and an important marriage outfit in the state.
- It is also the most commonly used costume in Mizo festive dances and official ceremonies.
- The weavers insert the designs and motifs by using supplementary yarns while weaving to create this beautiful and alluring textile.
Tirur betel:
- This is a vine from Kerala, which is mainly cultivated in Tirur, Tanur, Tirurangadi, Kuttippuram, Malappuram and Vengara block panchayaths of Malappuram District.
- It is valued both for its mild stimulant action and medicinal properties.
- Even though it is commonly used for making pan masala for chewing, it has many medicinal, industrial and cultural usages and is considered as a remedy for bad breath and digestive disorders.
General Studies of Rajasthan-All in One