Photo: Twitter
Imphal, Sep 18- Manipur's Tamenglong orange,a species of mandarim group and a unique fruit crop and another special chilli variety locally known as Sirarakhong 'Hathei chilli' gets its Geographical Indication (GI) status.
Confirming this in a facebook post today, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh wrote, "What a great start to the day for Manipur!I'm really happy to share that 2 (two) products of Manipur viz Hathei Chilly & Tamenglong orange have been granted GI Tag by Government of India.""This is a historic milestone in history of Manipur & it will increase the income of the farmers in Manipur. We will be receiving the certificates in the next few days," he added.
According to official sources, Manipur Organic Mission Agency applied for GI tags for Tamenglong orange and Sirarakhong Hathei chilli in 2019.
The GI status is an indication that identifies goods as produced from a particular area which has special quality attributable to its geographical origin and it has great potential to play a major role in trade and tourism.
Tamenglong orange is a species of mandarin group is a unique fruit crop found mostly in Tamenglong district which contributes over 50 per cent of the state's annual production.It is famous especially for its well blended sweetness and acidic taste.
On the other hand, Hathei chilli, one of the best varieties of chillies having its distinctive flavour and colour in the world found in Sirarakhong village in Ukhrul district.Apart from unique in its taste as well as its looks, the size, shape and the taste of Hathei chilli are quite singular.
Manipur has been celebrating the Orange Festival every December and Sirarakhong Hathei chilli festival every August for more than a decade to promote these products.
Manipur black rice or 'chakhao' bagged GI tag in May 2020. Earlier Kachai Lemon, a unique lemon variety which grows at Kachai village under Ukhrul has been accorded GI registration tag.
At times there are few proposals to take up GI process for a high protein content local pea variety-'Hawai-Tharak Makhyatmubi'.
