By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 4: Lakadong turmeric of Meghalaya which has a niche market, now has acquired the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
The Registrar of Geographical Indications (GI), Chennai, awarded the GI to Lakadong Turmeric, on November 29.
This recognition is a milestone for both the state and the Lakadong village, acknowledging them as the source of the world’s best turmeric.
Known as the magical healing spice, Lakadong turmeric boasts of remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cultivated in the alluvial hills of Meghalaya, it surpasses regular turmeric in potency, being three times more robust.
With a curcumin content ranging from 7-12%, Lakadong turmeric outshines regular turmeric, which typically contains only 2-3% curcumin. This high-curcumin content enhances the health-aiding and culinary attributes of Lakadong turmeric, making it highly sought after in national and global markets, especially in the post-COVID era.
Speaking at the third Meghalaya Farmers’ Parliament, Sangma congratulated the farmers, highlighting the journey that commenced four years ago with only a thousand farmers cultivating this magical spice.
“Today, numerous women self-help groups have joined in cultivating Lakadong turmeric”, Sangma said while emphasising that this GI recognition provides the turmeric with much-needed uniqueness, specifying its origin and thereby increasing its value.
“This recognition facilitates the state in promoting and marketing Lakadong turmeric on a global scale”, he added.
Before Lakadong turmeric, the Khasi Mandarin was also awarded the GI tag.
Sangma expressed the intention to continue pursuing GI tags for various products, including fruits and other indigenous items. The GI tag acknowledges the uniqueness of Lakadong turmeric but also is expected to bring several benefits, especially to small farmers.
It provides a distinctive selling point, sets the product apart, and can result in higher prices and increased demand.
Additionally, GI protection ensures that only those within the designated area can use the label, preserving traditional methods and local heritage, and a step towards promoting and safeguarding Meghalaya’s agricultural treasures on the global stage.
