Chennai, Dec 2 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu has successfully expanded its list of Geographical Indications (GI) by adding five more products, showcasing the state's rich artisanal traditions and agricultural variety. The recently acknowledged items include the Woraiyur cotton sari, Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai (jaggery powder), Namakkal makkal pathirangal (soapstone cookware), the traditional Thooyamalli rice variety, and Ambasamudram choppu saman (wooden toys).

With this addition, Tamil Nadu's GI repertoire has now reached 74 products, according to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi, who submitted the latest applications on behalf of various groups.

Among the newly certified products, the Woraiyur cotton sari hails from the historic weaving clusters of Manamedu in the Tiruchi district. Crafted along the banks of the Cauvery, these saris are made from cotton yarn sourced from Coimbatore and Rajapalayam, using dyes procured from Jayamkondam. Renowned for their lightness, durability, and intricate designs, these saris epitomize a weaving tradition that has flourished for generations.

The Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai from Erode district has also received recognition for its unique attributes. This region is a significant jaggery-producing area in the state, supported by extensive sugarcane farming aided by the Lower Bhavani Project canal. The signature jaggery powder is created by mechanically crushing sugarcane and slowly evaporating its juice, resulting in a pure, chemical-free sweetener widely used in households and traditional sweets.

The traditional rice variety Thooyamalli, meaning 'pure jasmine', is another notable addition to the GI list. This 135–140-day samba season rice is celebrated for its aroma, long grains, and resilience, having been cultivated for decades.

The Tamil Nadu State Agricultural Marketing Board, with support from the NABARD Madurai Agri Business Incubation Forum, filed the application that has led to this GI recognition.

Among the artisanal products, Namakkal's famed makkal pathirangal - soapstone cookware popularly known as kalchatti - has finally attained the GI tag after a lengthy process. The initial application, submitted by the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation (Poompuhar), was withdrawn in 2019. A new application was filed in 2022 by the Namakkal Stone Products Manufacturers and the MSME Technology Development Centre – Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre, resulting in successful certification this year.

Furthermore, the Ambasamudram choppu saman, a traditional wooden toy craft with a history of over 200 years, has also been recognized. Originating in Tirunelveli district, these miniature kitchen sets, tables, chairs, and play objects are handcrafted from indigenous woods like Manjal Kadamba, teak, and rosewood. The toys are cherished for their cultural significance, craftsmanship, and role in fostering children's creativity.