Why Are Four TN Specialists Seeking GI Tags with NABARD and MABIF Support?

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Why Are Four TN Specialists Seeking GI Tags with NABARD and MABIF Support?

Synopsis

Discover how four exceptional products from Tamil Nadu, including Sevur Groundnut and Kalakadu Banana, are on the verge of gaining Geographical Indication tags. Supported by NABARD and MABIF, these initiatives aim to preserve local agricultural heritage and boost economic opportunities within the communities.

Key Takeaways

  • NABARD and MABIF are facilitating GI tag applications for Tamil Nadu products.
  • Sevur Groundnut thrives in red loamy soil, ideally suited for cultivation.
  • The Kalakadu Banana is recognized for its exceptional taste and export value.
  • Kallidaikurichi Appalam is a traditional product sustaining local cottage industries.
  • Adhanakotai Cashew is known for its unique flavor due to traditional hand-roasting.

Madurai, May 14 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance and safeguard local agricultural and food products, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and the Madurai Agri Business Incubation Forum (MABIF) have collaboratively initiated applications for Geographical Indication (GI) tags for four distinctive products from Tamil Nadu: Sevur Groundnut, Kalakadu Banana, Kallidaikurichi Appalam, and Adhanakotai Cashew.

The GI applications were submitted by IPR attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi representing the respective producer associations. The Sevur Nilakkadalai Urpathiyalargal Sangam has sought a GI tag for Sevur Groundnut, which is cultivated in Sevur village and its surrounding areas within Kangeyam taluk, Tiruppur.

This semi-arid area, characterized by its red loamy and sandy soil, is perfectly suited for groundnut farming.

Currently, it spans 4,600 acres, with the potential to reach up to 10,000 acres during peak seasons. Typically, the crop is grown once a year, being sown in September and harvested in November.

In irrigated regions, it can be cultivated twice annually, yielding between 1,000 to 1,800 kg per hectare. The Kalakadu Banana, grown in the coastal Kalakad region of Tirunelveli, is recognized for its exceptional quality and export potential.

The Kalakadu Banana Urpathiyalargal Sangam emphasized that the area's tropical climate and rich alluvial soil yield bananas with remarkable taste and texture.

This fruit generally measures 15-18 cm in length, 3-4.5 cm in diameter, and weighs between 100–150 grams. Kallidaikurichi Appalam, a traditional papad, is created from finely ground black gram, salt, and asafoetida, utilizing water from the Tamirabarani River.

The Kallidaikurichi Appalam Urpathiyalargal Sangam noted that this product sustains local cottage industries, with many families engaged in its production for generations.

Finally, Adhanakotai Cashew, cultivated in the Pudukkottai district, is celebrated for its rich flavor and unique smoky aroma, a result of traditional hand-roasting methods. The Adhanakotai Cashew Vaazhai Urpathiyalargal has applied for GI recognition, highlighting the favorable climate and soil of the region.

The implementation of the GI tag is anticipated to enhance market recognition, safeguard traditional knowledge, and improve economic prospects for these communities.

Point of View

It is crucial to acknowledge the importance of protecting and promoting local agricultural products. The pursuit of Geographical Indication tags for these Tamil Nadu specialties reflects a commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting local economies.
NationPress
13/06/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) tag?
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin. It helps protect the product's unique characteristics and ensures that only those who produce the product in a specific area can market it under that name.
Why are GI tags important for local products?
GI tags help safeguard traditional agricultural practices, boost local economies by enhancing marketability, and protect the interests of producers by preventing misuse of the product names.
What impact will GI tags have on the economy of Tamil Nadu?
GI tags are expected to enhance market recognition, increase consumer trust, and ultimately improve the economic prospects for local farmers and producers in Tamil Nadu.
How does NABARD support local agricultural products?
NABARD provides financial and technical support to farmers and producer groups, helping them enhance production quality, find markets for their products, and secure GI tags for their unique offerings.
What are the unique features of Sevur Groundnut?
Sevur Groundnut is cultivated in a semi-arid region with ideal soil conditions, resulting in high-quality yields ranging from 1,000 to 1,800 kg per hectare, and is known for its flavor and texture.