Is Tamil Nadu Securing GI Tags for Five Indigenous Farm Products?

Chennai, June 22 (NationPress) In a significant step towards safeguarding and elevating the state's indigenous agricultural heritage, the Tamil Nadu State Agricultural Marketing Board (TNSAMB) is actively pursuing Geographical Indication (GI) tags for five regional farm products. This initiative, revealed in the state's Agriculture Budget 2025-26, aims to bolster the market value of these ancestral crops and enhance the livelihoods of farmers involved in their production.

An allocation of Rs 15 lakh has been set aside for the GI registration of five products: Nallur Varagu—a millet variety from Cuddalore; Vedharanyam Mullai—a jasmine flower from Nagapattinam; Natham Puli—tamarind from Dindigul; Ayakudi Koyya—guava from Dindigul; and Kappalpatti Karumbu Murungai—drumstick from Dindigul.

Prior to submitting the applications, comprehensive research and documentation were conducted by the Madurai Agribusiness Incubation Forum, a project backed by NABARD and the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). These efforts gathered agronomic, cultural, and geographical data to highlight the uniqueness of each product.

A senior official from TNSAMB stated that obtaining the GI tag would provide substantial long-term advantages to farmers by protecting their products from imitation, ensuring higher prices, and granting access to specialized domestic and international markets.

It's worth noting that Nallur Varagu (Cuddalore), a traditional millet, is grown in the Nallur area of Kurinjipadi Taluk. Renowned for its medicinal benefits, particularly in managing blood sugar and strengthening bones, this grain is frequently recommended for children and individuals recuperating from illness. It reaches a height of 120 cm and is harvested 90-100 days post-sowing in July-August, with yields varying from 800 to 1,400 kg per hectare, based on cultivation practices.

Vedharanyam Mullai (Nagapattinam) represents a unique jasmine variety from the coastal Vedharanyam area. This flower is celebrated for its natural aroma and enduring freshness, maintaining its fragrance for nearly 24 hours after harvest. The commercial cultivation period extends from February to September, peaking from April to July. Farmers typically harvest the blooms before dawn to guarantee optimal fragrance and quality.

The Ayakudi Koyya (Dindigul), commonly referred to as Ayakudi Guava, thrives in the nutrient-rich red and sandy loam soils of Ayakudi village near Palani. The soil's abundant organic content and suitable pH levels (6.0 to 7.5) contribute to the guava's exceptional taste, crisp texture, and uniform size, making it a vital crop for numerous local farmers.

Natham Puli (Dindigul), a tamarind variety cultivated in Natham Taluk, is distinguished by its thick pulp, low fiber and seed content, and a high tartaric acid concentration (8-14%). Its natural long shelf life and rich, tangy flavor give it a significant advantage in both culinary and commercial applications.

Kappalpatti Karumbu Murungai (Dindigul) is a rare drumstick variety that resembles sugarcane in length and thickness. This crop is grown across 3,500-5,000 acres in the Kappalpatti region. Sown in September-October and harvested by December-January, it has a brief 90-100 day crop cycle, yielding 20-28 bundles per acre, each weighing between 50-65 kg. A second harvest is achievable in irrigated fields.

Officials indicated that achieving GI status will aid Tamil Nadu in preserving the legacy of these traditional crops while enhancing their commercial attractiveness. Previous success stories such as Madurai Malli and Thanjavur Veena have demonstrated how GI tags can elevate local products to globally recognized brands.

Through this latest endeavor, Tamil Nadu reinforces its commitment to inclusive agricultural development that honors traditions while fostering innovation.