In a moment of pride for Arunachal Pradesh, three distinctive products from the state, supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the Arunachal Pradesh State Government, are making waves at the 42nd India International Trade Fair (IITF), 2023. Arunachal Pradesh Khamti Rice, Yak Churpi, and Tangsa Textile have garnered the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, reflecting their unique traditional roots.
The driving force behind these achievements is Padamshri Dr. Rajnikant, National GI Technical Facilitator and Expert, who spearheaded the registration process. Notably, Khamti Rice and Yak Churpi mark the first Agriculture and Food products, while Tangsa Textile becomes the second textile product from Arunachal Pradesh to obtain GI certification.
The GI tag symbolizes the distinctive traditional knowledge of the specific region and community, safeguarding it from imitation. This recognition opens up avenues for these products, creating opportunities to enhance livelihoods and income through increased national and international marketability. Authenticity and quality assurance are inherent benefits of the GI tag, promising consumers genuine products.
Product Highlights:
- Khamti Rice: A chewy sticky rice variety cultivated in the Namsai region by Khampti tribal farmers, Khamti Rice is integral to local traditional delicacies.
- Yak Churpi: A fermented, casein-based cottage cheese-like product made from raw skimmed and fermented yak milk of the Arunachali yak breed, Yak Churpi, registered under ICAR-NRC on Yak, Dirang, holds immense potential for socio-economic upliftment.
- Tangsa Textile: Crafted by the Tangsa tribe of Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh, Tangsa Textile boasts unique exotic designs and vibrant colors reflecting the cultural richness of the region.
The ongoing IITF, 2023, hosted by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) from November 14-27, 2023, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, serves as the platform for showcasing these remarkable products. Under the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: United by Trade,” the event emphasizes global unity through commerce. Representatives of the showcased products are actively participating in the fair, contributing to the celebration of Arunachal Pradesh’s rich cultural heritage on the international stage.