Meghalaya has launched an ambitious initiative to secure Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 32 indigenous products, ranging from traditional foods and spices to tribal musical instruments, handicrafts, and cultural artefacts. This major effort aims to protect and promote the state’s rich bio-cultural heritage globally. The new applications include iconic products such as Sohra Honey, Meghalaya Hills Coffee, Meghalaya Pineapple, Meghalaya Black Pepper, Meghalaya Ginger, and Meghalaya Areca Nut, alongside traditional ethnic foods like Tungrymbai and Garo Sticky Rice (Minal).
The applications have been filed by various organizations. A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products originating from a specific geographical region and possessing qualities, reputation, or characteristics essentially linked to that place of origin. GI protection is often associated with products developed and preserved over generations by rural, indigenous, and marginalized communities.