250 cultivators from Nagaland are granted GI tag user authorization

Morung Express News
Kohima | June 29 

In a major boost to the local farmers of Nagaland, 250 cultivators of sweet cucumber and tree tomato were granted the ‘user authorize’ to utilize Geographical Indication (GI) tagging of the North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Ltd (NERAMAC) processed certification.

The ceremonial forwarding of the GI applications was held at the GI awareness seminar organised by NERAMAC at Hotel Japfü this morning. 

Commodore Rajiv Ashok (Retd), Managing Director NERAMAC said the certified tagging will not only provide recognition of the unique qualities of the Naga cucumber and tree tomato but also bring more financial benefits to the farmers.

NERAMAC, he said has supported the certification of 13 such agri-horti produce of the eight states in the North East Region, a significant steps towards promoting and protecting traditional agricultural practices and products. 

‘The authorisation would allow the applicants to use the GI symbol and certification on the produce they are marketing and thus, allow for better returns’ he stated.

He also explained how the authorisation process of farmers would enhance the competitiveness of the produce in domestic and international markets and create opportunities for increased income and livelihood.

Terming this as a ‘very proud’ moment for NERAMAC to be embarking on a journey to initiate the process to user authorise these certifications, Ashok informed that it has processed 800 such user authorisation forms from all states of NER and forwarded to the GI Registry at Chennai for approve usage. 

Farmers must produce on commercial scale
Also speaking on the occasion, officers from the department of Horticulture and Agriculture, said following the certified tagging, it is the duty of the farmers to produce the products on a commercial scale.

One of the officers narrated how the state often failed to meet the demand from outside owing to limited produces. To this, he urged the farmers to endeavour towards large scale production, which would solely benefit them in return.

Director of Horticulture, Meyasashi informed that Naga tree tomato, one of the exotic crops of the state was granted geographical indication on March 23, 2015 under certification number 373. 

This, he said is grown in the district of Kohima, Phek, Kiphire, Mon, Wokha, Mokokchung, Longleng, Tuensang and Zunheboto with an estimated area and production during 2022-23 at 97.08 hectare and 186.08 metric tonnes.

Naga cucumber was also granted GI with no. 640 on September 2021where the estimated area and production during 2022-23 is at 701.29 Ha and 9692.64 metric tonnes.

However, he also pointed out some interventions which are required such as area expansion to enhance its production, promote and popularise these GI crops within and outside the state, processing and value addition technology and organised market channels.

During the technical session, senior official and GI expert from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade of Minister of Commerce & Industry spoke on the importance of NER specific GI products and emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to promote NER region-specific GI products.

It may be mentioned that NERAMAC incorporated in 1982 as a Government of India enterprise with North Eastern Council (NEC) as a promoter is now under the administrative control of the Ministry of Development of the NER. With its head office located in Assam, it is contemplating to set up it branch offices in Nagaland and Meghalaya as well.

GI tag a valuable tool for preserving Nagaland’s unique cultural heritage
Nagaland known for its rich cultural heritage and a diverse range of products, the Geographical Indication tag can be a valuable tool for preserving Nagaland’s unique cultural heritage, stated Managing Director of NABARD, Tiakala Ao.

Briefly explaining the importance of GI, Ao said obtaining GI tags for these products can promote their distinctiveness and create a niche market for them, and also play a significant role in promoting and safeguarding the traditional and unique products of the state.

Speaking at the GI awareness seminar organised by NERAMAC, Ao citing the GI-tagged products from Nagaland such as Naga Mircha (King Chilli), Naga Tree Tomato, Naga sweet cucumber and Chakhesang shawl said, these products are all known for their unique flavors, textures, and colors. 

One of the most important assets of Nagaland, she pointed out is its traditional products which are made using traditional methods and materials reflecting the unique culture and heritage of the state that have been passed down for generations.

Although, there has been a growing demand for traditional Naga products both within India and abroad in the recent years, she also noted that there has also been an increase in the number of counterfeit products being produced.

To this end, Ao said the GI tag can be valuable tool for preserving Nagaland’s unique cultural heritage and can help to ensure that they are passed down to future generations. ‘This helps to protect the reputation of traditional Naga products, and it helps to ensure that consumers are getting genuine products’ she added. 

Ginger, pineapples could be considered for GI tag
Ao said the Naga ginger with its unique aroma and flavour and pineapples from Medziphema with its distinct flavour and taste can be considered for obtaining a GI tag. This, she said could help establish its distinct identity in the market. 

To explore the prospects of geographical indications for horticultural produce in Nagaland, she pointed out that the state government, agricultural authorities, and relevant stakeholders should collaborate to identify potential products, conduct detailed research on their unique characteristics, establish production standards, and submit a comprehensive application to the appropriate authorities for GI protection.  

While the process of obtaining a geographical indication can be complex and requires meeting certain criteria defined by the concerned authority, nonetheless, she said promoting and marketing the GI products effectively can help create economic opportunities for the farmers and boost the overall agricultural sector in Nagaland.