Meghalaya's Agriculture Minister, Ampareen Lyngdoh, announced that Lakadong turmeric from the state has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, as reported by news agency PTI. In addition to Lakadong turmeric, Garo Dakmanda (traditional dress), Larnai pottery, and Garo Chubitchi (alcoholic beverage) have also received the GI tag.
Lyngdoh highlighted that Lakadong turmeric, cultivated in the Lakadong area of Jaintia Hills, boasts a high curcumin content. The GI tag is expected to aid farmers in marketing and provide consumers access to the authentic product.
"We are pleased to announce that GI has been awarded to Lakadong turmeric," stated the minister to PTI, expressing gratitude to the stakeholders who played a role in securing the GI tag.
Lakadong turmeric is globally recognized as one of the best varieties, featuring a curcumin content ranging from 6.8 to 7.5 percent. Grown organically without the use of fertilisers, it exhibits a darker colour. Currently, around 14,000 farmers across 43 villages in the Lakadong area cultivate this turmeric variety on 1,753 hectares of land.
Lyngdoh noted that the GI tag will offer farmers a unique selling point, contributing to better market prices.
Trinity Saioo, a Lakadong farmer who received the Padma Shri in 2021 for encouraging turmeric cultivation, expressed joy and gratitude to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma for promoting the spice.
"I am very happy that Lakadong turmeric has received the GI tag. It is a blessing for the people of Jaintia Hills," said Saioo, foreseeing enhanced competitiveness for Lakadong farmers in domestic and international markets, leading to more livelihood opportunities, as per the PTI report.
Apart from Lakadong turmeric, other items receiving the GI tag include Dakmanda, a traditional garment worn by Garo women, Chubitchi, a rice-based fermented drink of the Garo community, and Larnai pottery, crafted from black clay in Larnai village, showcasing an art form passed down through generations.