1. Meghalaya’s Lakadong turmeric receives the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, affirming its unique origin and qualities.
2. The GI tag also extends to other cultural items, including Garo Dakmanda, Larnai pottery, and Garo Chubitchi.
3. Lakadong turmeric, known for its high curcumin content, is organically grown by around 14,000 farmers in the Lakadong area, covering 1,753 hectares of land.
Shillong, Dec 06: Meghalaya’s Lakadong turmeric has been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, as announced by state Agriculture Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh. This recognition extends to other cultural items, including Garo Dakmanda (traditional dress), Larnai pottery, and Garo Chubitchi (an alcoholic beverage).
Lakadong turmeric, primarily found in the Lakadong area of Jaintia Hills, boasts high curcumin content, and the GI tag is expected to enhance marketing opportunities for farmers and ensure authenticity for consumers. Minister Lyngdoh expressed gratitude to the stakeholders instrumental in securing the GI tag, emphasizing its positive impact on farmers’ access to markets.
Renowned as one of the finest turmeric varieties globally, Lakadong turmeric exhibits a curcumin content ranging from 6.8% to 7.5%. It’s distinctive dark color and organic cultivation without fertilizers contribute to its appeal.
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Currently, approximately 14,000 farmers across 43 villages in the Lakadong region cultivate this prized turmeric variety on 1,753 hectares of land. The GI tag is anticipated to provide a unique selling proposition for farmers, ensuring favorable market prices.
Trinity Saioo, a Padma Shri awardee for her efforts in promoting Lakadong turmeric cultivation, expressed joy and gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma for supporting the spice.
The GI tag is viewed as a blessing for the people of Jaintia Hills, with expectations that it will enhance competitiveness in domestic and international markets, creating more livelihood opportunities for Lakadong farmers.
In addition to Lakadong turmeric, the GI tag has been conferred upon Garo Dakmanda, a handwoven ankle-length lower garment integral to the traditional attire of Garo women. Garo Chubitchi, a rice-based fermented drink associated with Garo community feasts and ceremonies, and Larnai pottery, crafted from black clay in Larnai village and passed down through generations, also received this prestigious recognition.
