Kapdaganda Shawls and Koraput Kalajeera Rice Earn GI Tags

Priti Palit

2 years ago

Kapdaganda Shawls: A Cultural Gem Awaits GI Tags

Dongria Kondhs in Rayagada District Await GI Tags for Their Beloved Kapdaganda Shawls

Download August 2024 BOLT PDF (Current Affairs)

Kapdaganda Shawls: A Tapestry of Tradition and Craftsmanship

The Kapdaganda shawls, intricately embroidered and treasured by the Dongria Kondh community, embody profound cultural significance. They are a symbol of gratitude and the epitome of traditional craftsmanship.

The Path to GI Recognition Unveiled

The quest for the GI tag for Kapdaganda began when the Niyamgiri Dongria Kondh Weavers’ Association (NDKWA) joined hands with the Directorate of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute. Recognizing the cultural significance, the GI application process was initiated.

Awaiting Official GI Acknowledgment

Progress Toward GI Status for Kapdaganda

The GI authority, operating under the Union government’s jurisdiction, has officially advertised Kapdaganda for GI status. The next critical step involves a three-month period for potential objections. Once this period concludes without objections, Kapdaganda will proudly bear the GI tag, confirming its authenticity and exclusivity.

Koraput Kalajeera Rice: The ‘Prince of Rice’ Receives GI Tags

A Unique Rice Variety
Koraput Kalajeera Rice, often hailed as the ‘Prince of Rice,’ has attained Geographical Indications (GI) status. This aromatic rice, cultivated for generations by tribal farmers in Koraput district, stands out for its nutritional value and distinctive characteristics.

The Distinctive Traits of Kalajeera Rice
Koraput Kalajeera Rice is renowned for its striking black color, exceptional aroma, delightful taste, and pleasing texture. Beyond its culinary appeal, it is associated with numerous health benefits, including improved memory, diabetes management, increased hemoglobin levels, and enhanced metabolism. This aromatic grain is celebrated for its antispasmodic, stomachic, carminative, antibacterial, astringent, and sedative properties.

Honoring a Deep-rooted Heritage

A Landmark Recognition
The journey to secure the GI tag for Koraput Kalajeera Rice was facilitated by the Odisha government, which extended support to the Jaivik Sri Farmers Producer Company Limited in Pujariput during their application for GI registry on January 11, 2022. Finally, on August 31, 2023, an official advertisement confirming its GI status was released on the Geographical Indications Registry’s official website.

In summary, the journey of Kapdaganda Shawls and Koraput Kalajeera Rice to acquire Geographical Indicator (GI) tags is a significant milestone that recognizes their cultural and culinary importance. These developments reflect the rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship of the indigenous communities, marking a path for the preservation and promotion of their unique traditions.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

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