By May 2024, India has 229 registered GI (Geographical Indication) products in the food and agriculture category.
Khola chilli is a special type of chilli grown Goa. These chillies are known for their bright red color and medium spicy taste. Khola chilli powder adds a rich red color to dishes. It is also used to extract food-grade red color. Papads made with Khola chillies have a medium spicy flavor, making them a popular delicacy.
Marayoor Jaggery
Marayoor jaggery is very sweet, has no salty taste, is rich in iron, low in sodium, and made with organic methods. It is dark brown and very pure. Even today, most of the farming is done by workers from the Muthuva tribal community, Tamil Nadu.
Nashik Grapes
Nashik Grapes are a type of grape grown in Nashik district, called the ‘Grape Capital of India.’ Nashik exports more than half of India’s grapes. It is one of the few places in the world where grapes are harvested from February to April. Nashik, near 20 degrees latitude, grows high-quality grapes, while most international grape-growing areas are between 30 and 40 degrees latitude.
Cardamom of Coorg
The cardamom from Coorg is called the Manjarabad variety or “MALAY YALAKKI” locally. It is special because of its color, size, chemicals, and oil content. This cardamom has a strong smell and adds a rich flavor to food.
Katarni Rice
Katarni rice is known for its long thin grain and fragrance. It is grown natively in the Bhagalpur and Banka districts of Bihar, India. It is often used for ceremonial occasions. The name Katarni comes from the shape of the paddy’s tip, which looks like an awl.
Magahi paan
Magahi paan is a popular type of betel leaf from Bihar. It is mostly grown in the Magadh region, covering Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, and Nalanda districts. The leaves from these areas are of very high quality and cost more than other betel leaves. Magahi paan is spicy, less fibrous, and melts easily in the mouth. It is known for its shiny dark green color, unique taste, and long shelf life.
Mithila Makhana
Mithila Makhana or Makhan is a special variety of aquatic fox nut cultivated in Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal. Makhana contains protein and fiber, along with micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.
Kaji Nemu
The oval-shaped Kaji Nemu lemon is known for its special growth, taste, shape, and smell. This lemon grows only in Assam, making it different from other citrus fruits in India. Kaji Nemu is mostly used in cooking, for commercial purposes, and for its medicinal benefits.
Kandhamal Haladi
Odisha’s Kandhamal Haldi (turmeric), famous for its healing and cosmetic properties. It is one of the major cash crop of tribal people in Kandhamal district.
Kashmir saffron
Kashmir saffron is grown and harvested in the Karewa highlands of Jammu and Kashmir. It is the only spice in the world grown at an altitude of 1,600 to 1,800 meters above sea level. This makes it very special. Kashmir saffron is known for its deep red color, strong aroma, and bitter taste, which make it different from other types of saffron.
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