Four Geographical Indication (GI) tags were granted to Garo Dakmanda textile, Larnai pottery, alcoholic drink Chubitchi and Lakadong turmeric.
If this news sounds familiar, it is because cabinet minister Ampareen Lyngdoh had already announced this back in December.
However, the GI status was formally granted yesterday by the Registrar of Geographical Indications, Chennai.
The Registrar declared and awarded the coveted Geographical Indication tag No. 741 for Lakadong Turmeric vide Journal No 185 Part 1 of the Government of India. This is a seminal moment for the State and especially for the farmers of Lakadong, as both the State and Lakadong village have finally been rightfully recognised as the source of the best turmeric in the world.
The three other GIs for Garo Dakmanda (textile), Larnai pottery and the Garo Chubitchi have also been awarded GI vide journal No 185 Part 3.
These four GI-tagged products not only represent the cultural heritage of Meghalaya but also serve as vital sources of livelihood for approximately 30,000 individuals directly involved in their production and trade.
The granting of these GI tags underscores the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and promoting economic growth in the region.
It may be noted that the State government launched the Lakadong Mission on April 24, 2018 focusing on elevating livelihood opportunities for farmers and agri-entrepreneurs through the promotion of Lakadong turmeric. The mission has successfully impacted over 12,000 farmers, with 20 farmer groups actively engaged in the procurement and distribution of high-quality seeds.
The GI tag coveted on the Larnai pottery underscores the distinctive nature of this age-old craft, acknowledging the specific geographical conditions of the region in imparting unique qualities and characteristics to the pottery. The journey for obtaining the GI of Larnai pottery started years back in September of 2013. The recognition not only safeguards the traditional craftsmanship but also opens avenues for economic opportunities and ensures the preservation of cultural legacies.
Moreover, Dakmanda is a traditional attire significant to the Garo tribe in Meghalaya. Worn around as a wraparound skirt, this ankle-length garment is native to the Garo hills and is traditionally woven from long-staple cotton known as ‘khidig’ and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Garo community. The intricate designs and vibrant colours represent the aspects of their culture and not only serves as clothing but also plays a crucial role in preserving and expressing the unique identity and traditions of the Garo people.
Chubitchi is a liquor, which is generally a weak home-brewed beer, of a milky colour, made from rice or other grains, and is even poured into the mouths of their babies as soon as they can swallow. Garos consider Chubitchi as one of the most important parts of their cultural life. Chubitchi is used during religious rituals, meetings, social gatherings, birth, marriage, during Wangala (harvest festival), housewarming ceremony, before fighting enemies (in the pre-modern era) and on almost every occasion.
