07.12.2023
Lakadong Turmeric , Daily Current Affairs , RACE IAS : Best IAS Coaching in Lucknow
For Prelims:About Lakadong Turmeric,Important points,About Curcumin
For Mains paper :About Geographical Indication
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Why in the news?
Recently Lakadong turmeric of Meghalaya has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
Important points:
- Along with Lakadong turmeric, Garo Dakmanda (traditional attire), Larnai pottery and Garo Chubichi (alcoholic beverage) were also awarded the GI tag.
About Lakadong Turmeric:
- Lakadong turmeric is considered one of the best turmeric varieties in the world.
- It is found in the Lakadong region of Jaintia Hills, it has high content of curcumin.
- In which the amount of curcumin is about 6.8 to 7.5 percent.
- It has a deep color and is grown organically without the use of fertilizers.
About Curcumin:
- Curcumin is a bright yellow chemical produced by plants of the Curcuma longa species.
- It is the major curcuminoid of turmeric (Curcuma longa), a member of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae.
- It is sold as a herbal supplement, cosmetic ingredient, food flavoring, and food coloring.
- It benefits inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, pain and helps in the management of inflammatory and degenerative eye conditions.
- Apart from this, it also benefits the kidneys.
- Most of these benefits are due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
About Geographical Indication
- Geographical indication is a label placed on products that have a specific geographical origin and have characteristics associated with a particular place.
- GI Tag is the short form of Geographical Indication Tag in India. It came into effect on 15 September 2003.
- Geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and have a quality or reputation due to that origin.
- Such a name assures quality and uniqueness which is essentially attributed to its origin in that defined geographical locality.
- The products which are given the Geographical Indication tag in India are considered as priceless treasures of Incredible India.
- This tag is valid for a period of 10 years after which it can be renewed.
- The Union Commerce and Industry Minister had launched the logo and tagline for Geographical Indications (GI) of India.
- The first product to get the GI tag in India was Darjeeling tea in 2004.
The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 (GI Act) is a sui generis act for the protection of GIs in India.