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Tamil Nadu Celebrates 5 New GI-Tagged Products

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Tamil Nadu Celebrates 5 New GI-Tagged Products

  • 03 Dec, 2025
  • 375

Tamil Nadu's New Geographical Indications (GI) Products

Tamil Nadu has recently received recognition for five distinctive products awarded the Geographical Indications (GI) tag. This acknowledgment highlights the state's rich heritage in traditional crafts, agricultural varieties, and artisanal skills. The newly recognized products include:

  • Woraiyur cotton sari
  • Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai (traditional jaggery powder)
  • Namakkal soapstone cookware (makkal pathirangal)
  • Thooyamalli rice (a traditional rice variety)
  • Ambasamudram choppu saman (wooden toys)

With this recognition, Tamil Nadu now boasts a total of 74 GI-tagged products, reinforcing its status as a prominent contributor to India's cultural and craft diversity.

What is a GI Tag and Why Does It Matter?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property protection granted to products that:

  • Originate from a specific region
  • Possess unique qualities linked to their location
  • Represent traditional knowledge or craft techniques

The GI status provides several benefits, including:

  • Brand identity protection
  • Market value enhancement
  • Cultural preservation
  • Economic benefits to artisans and farming communities

In this instance, the applications were submitted on behalf of producers by Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi, emphasizing the importance of structured legal backing for traditional sectors.

Highlights of the Newly GI-Recognised Products

Woraiyur Cotton Sari

This textile craft is known for its lightweight weave, fine cotton texture, and simple elegance, historically associated with the ancient temple town of Woraiyur in Tiruchirappalli district.

Kavindapadi Nattu Sakkarai

A natural jaggery powder made using traditional methods, valued for its purity, nutritional content, and minimal processing.

Namakkal Soapstone Cookware

These handcrafted soapstone vessels are known for their heat retention, slow cooking benefits, and cultural significance in South Indian kitchens.

Thooyamalli Rice

This native rice variety is prized for its fragrance, long grains, high cooking quality, and health benefits.

Ambasamudram Choppu Saman

These traditional wooden toys are intricately carved and painted by artisans, representing local craft knowledge and cultural heritage.

Why This Matters for Tamil Nadu

This development underscores Tamil Nadu's rich artisanal and agricultural legacy, showcasing a continuous effort to protect traditional skills and rural livelihoods. There is also a growing awareness and institutional support for craft-based industries. As one of India's leading GI hubs, this update further solidifies Tamil Nadu's national position in heritage-based product identity and export branding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the newly GI-tagged products from Tamil Nadu?
Answer: Tamil Nadu's new GI-tagged products include Woraiyur cotton sari, Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai, Namakkal soapstone cookware, Thooyamalli rice, and Ambasamudram choppu saman.

Q2. What is the significance of a GI tag?
Answer: A GI tag protects products that have unique qualities linked to their region, enhances market value, and aids in cultural preservation and economic benefits for local communities.

Q3. Who filed the applications for the GI tags in Tamil Nadu?
Answer: The applications for the GI tags were filed by Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) attorney P. Sanjai Gandhi on behalf of the producers.

Q4. How many GI-tagged products does Tamil Nadu have now?
Answer: With the latest additions, Tamil Nadu now possesses a total of 74 GI-tagged products, highlighting its rich cultural heritage.

Q5. Why is protecting traditional crafts important?
Answer: Protecting traditional crafts helps preserve cultural heritage, supports rural livelihoods, and promotes local artisans, contributing to the overall economic development of the region.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does a Geographical Indication (GI) tag signify?
A) It protects products based on brand identity
B) It indicates the product originates from a specific region
C) It supports international trade
D) It is a marketing strategy
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which of the following is a newly GI-tagged product from Tamil Nadu?
A) Thooyamalli rice
B) Basmati rice
C) Sona Masoori rice
D) Jasmine rice
Correct Answer: A

Question 3: Who is responsible for filing GI tag applications in Tamil Nadu?
A) Local farmers
B) Intellectual Property Rights attorney
C) Government officials
D) Exporters
Correct Answer: B

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