The Meghalaya Farmers’ (Empowerment) Commission today heralded the news that Lakadong turmeric has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Lakadong turmeric is one of four Meghalaya products that was recently granted the GI status, the others being Larnai pottery, Garo Dakmanda textile and alcoholic drink Chubitchi.
Lakadong turmeric has a higher curcumin content (7-12 percent) than other varieties (typically 2-3 percent), making it highly sought after as a health food.
“However, the increased demand has unfortunately resulted in instances of misuse and misrepresentation in the market,” the commission said in a press release today. “Inferior quality turmeric sourced from other regions has been falsely labelled as Lakadong turmeric, jeopardising its reputation and authenticity.”
The GI status accorded to Lakadong turmeric serves to safeguard several aspects crucial to its authenticity, quality and reputation, the commission added.
It also acknowledged and appreciated the collaborative efforts of the Directorates of Horticulture and Agriculture, the District Horticulture Officers of East and West Jaintia Hills (past and present), farmer representatives and the dedicated commitment of Demandson Lyngdoh, Project Officer of Mission Lakadong.
Furthermore, the commission extended its gratitude to other organisations and individuals who played pivotal roles in securing this recognition, namely Lakadong farmers and self-help groups (SHGs) of East and West Jaintia Hills, Padma Shri Trinity Saio, Directors of Horticulture both past and present, scientists of the Horticulture Division, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region and Bhanu Pratap Singh, Executive Director of NE Farm Sales Promotion in Guwahati.
