Manipur's Sirarakhong chillies, Tamenglong oranges get GI tag

·         Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has announced that the famous Sirarakhong Chilli and Tamenglong Orange have now got the Geographical Index (GI) tag.

·         The Hathei chillies of Manipur, known for their vibrant red color and flavour, and the fruit Tamenglong orange have been given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

·         Hathei, a chilli variety grown in the Ukhrul district of the state, is considered a 'gift of God' by the local people of Sirarakhong village, where it is mainly grown. Such is its popularity that a festival is celebrated every year to promote the chilli variety which has now become a lifeline for the Sirarkhong residents.

Important facts

About GI Tag

v  GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin.

v  The first product in India that was awarded the GI tag was Darjeeling tea in 2004-05.

v  Karnataka has the highest number of 47 products with GI tags, followed by Tamil Nadu (39).