Latest news with #GeographicalIndicationsRegistry
New Indian Express
21-07-2025
- Science
- New Indian Express
GI tag sought for Ramanathapuram's Mugavai Kuliyadichan red rice
CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology (TNSCST), an autonomous organisation under the state higher education department, has filed an application with the Geographical Indications Registry, seeking geographical indication (GI) tag for Mugavai Kuliyadichan Sivappu Arisi (Mugavai Kuliyadichan Red Rice). The GI tag is expected to promote the rice variety, boost its market value, and preserve its unique identity. The application, filed jointly by TNSCST and Sethu Seemai Farming Fed Farmer Producer Company Ltd, cites that Mugavai Kuliyadichan Sivappu Arisi is a unique variety of rice native to Tamil Nadu. It is characterised by its small, round grains and has a distinct taste and aroma. This rice variety is highly regarded for its nutritional value, rich in dietary fiber and essential minerals. Mugavai Kuliyadichan red rice is a heritage variety of traditional red rice cultivated in Ramanathapuram. It is indigenous red parboiled rice and is widely grown in saline-prone and well-drained soils, praised for drought and pest resistance. Scientific trials and historical records concur that its unique micronutrient profile, antioxidant richness, and agronomic resilience cannot be replicated elsewhere. S Vincent, TNSCST member secretary, said local farmers retained Kuliyadaichan seeds due to their drought resistance. It stands out for its distinct flavour, quality, and nutritional benefits, linked to Ramanathapuram's unique geographical and cultural environment.
The Hindu
14-07-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Narsapuram crochet lace wins ‘One District One Product' award
West Godavari District Collector Chadalavada Nagarani received the 'One District One Product' award for Narsapuram crochet lace craft from the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, at an award ceremony held in Delhi on Monday. In an official release, Ms. Nagarani said that the design and development of the craft would be prioritised going forward, as the craft has the potential to provide employment opportunities for women in the Godavari region. On March 1, 2024, the Narsapuram crochet lace craft was registered in the Geographical Indications Registry, certifying its geographically origin to 19 mandals in West Godavari and Dr.B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema districts. The GI tag for the craft was jointly applied by West Godavari District Alankriti Lace Manufacturing Mahila Mutual Aided Co-operative Societies' Federation Limited (popularly known as Alankriti Federation), Narsapuram All India Crochet Lace Exporters Association and Andhra Pradesh Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited (APHDC).
Hans India
25-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Sivakasi fireworks industry seeks GI tag to preserve legacy and boost exports
The century-old fireworks industry in Tamil Nadu's Sivakasi has formally applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in a bid to protect its legacy, enhance credibility, and open new avenues for exports. The application for the GI tag under the "manufactured goods" category was submitted to the Geographical Indications Registry by the Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA), through advocate and IPR attorney, P. Suganthi. Often referred to as the 'fireworks capital of India,' Sivakasi, and its surrounding regions like Vemkottai, Virudhunagar, Sattur, Srivilliputhur, and parts of Kovilpatti, produce over 80 per cent of the country's fireworks. The industry thrives in Sivakasi's dry climate, which is particularly well-suited for firework manufacturing. The sector has a market value of approximately Rs 6,000 crore, growing at a rate of nearly 10 per cent annually. "There are many illegal and unregulated units operating not just in Sivakasi, but across the country. We are the pioneers of this industry, and a GI tag will help distinguish authentic Sivakasi-made fireworks. It will also enable us to seek financial support and expand into international markets," a TANFAMA representative said. Intellectual Property Rights attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi emphasised that a GI tag could help curb the menace of counterfeit and substandard fireworks in the market. "A GI tag lends credibility and acts as a safeguard against duplicate products," he said. The industry has long struggled with safety concerns, as illegal manufacturing units have contributed to frequent accidents involving fires and explosions. By securing a GI tag, the association hopes to reinforce quality control and improve safety standards. According to the GI filing, Sivakasi-made fireworks are used beyond celebrations. They are utilised by the armed forces for training purposes, and certain airports use Sivakasi rockets to deter birds and prevent bird strikes. The history of this industry dates back to pre-Independence days, with three pioneering firms—National Fireworks (chain crackers), Kaliswari Fireworks (fire pots), and Standard Fireworks ('Lakshmi' bombs). By 1980, the number of factories had surged to 189, employing over 75,000 people. Today, the region houses more than 1,000 units. Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges, including environmental concerns and a lack of interest among the younger generation to join the family trade. Manufacturers hope that a GI tag will revitalise interest and secure the future of this iconic industry.
