Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 06 December 2024
In a significant milestone for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, seven indigenous and unique products have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags, recognising their cultural and traditional significance. This initiative aligns with the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister to honour the heritage of ancient tribal communities and their craftsmanship.
The products awarded GI tags are:
– Nicobari Mat (Chatrai-hileuoi) – Registration No. 1054
– Nicobari Hut (To Chanvi Pati – Nyi hupul) – Registration No. 1061
– Nicobari Hodi – Registration No. 998
– Padauk Wood Craft – Registration No. 1060
– Andaman & Nicobar Coconut – Registration No. 1059
– Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich (Virgin Coconut Oil) – Registration No. 1057
– Andaman Karen Musley Rice – Registration No. 1055
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), in collaboration with key stakeholders, spearheaded this initiative as a tribute to the tribal communities of the Islands. The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands blessed the journey earlier this year, in April 2024.
This achievement was made possible through the collective efforts of applicants such as the Tribals Development Cooperative Society Ltd., Sahara Women’s Marketing Cooperative Society Ltd., Tribal Development Council, and Centre for Participatory Training and Learning. The process was coordinated by the Human Welfare Association under the expert guidance of Padma awardee Mr. Rajani Kant, also known as “the GI Man of India.”
NABARD expressed its gratitude to the A & N Administration for its unwavering support throughout the process.
The GI tags not only confer Intellectual Property Rights to these products but also immortalize the rich cultural heritage of the Nicobarese and Karen communities. This recognition is expected to boost the visibility of these unique products, enhancing their value in local and global markets.