Five Traditional Tamil Nadu Products Earn New GI Recognition

Why in the News?

Five culturally significant and region-specific products from Tamil Nadu have recently been awarded the Geographical Indications (GI) Tag, strengthening their market identity, safeguarding artisan livelihoods, and promoting traditional heritage.

What is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A Geographical Indication is an intellectual property right used for products that originate from a specific geographical region and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to that location.

• Governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999
• Valid for 10 years, renewable
• Helps prevent unauthorised use and promotes rural economic development

Newly Recognised GI Products from Tamil Nadu

1. Woraiyur Cotton Sari

Location: Woraiyur & Manamedu, Tiruchirappalli District

Key Features:

• Known for the Korvai border, featuring continuous geometric motifs and bold colour contrasts.
• Traditionally woven on the banks of the Cauvery River.
• Celebrated for its durability, vibrant palette, and meticulous craftsmanship.
• The Devanga weaving community has preserved and promoted the art of Woraiyur saris for generations.

2. Thooyamalli Rice

Meaning: Thooyamalli translates to “Pure Jasmine”.

Characteristics:

• A traditional samba-season rice variety, maturing in 135–140 days.
• Also called “pearl rice” for its shiny appearance.
• Highly valued for its nutritional properties, aroma, and long-grain texture.
• Popular in traditional Tamil cuisine due to its easy digestibility and health benefits.

3. Kavindapadi Naatu Sakkarai (Jaggery Powder)

Region: Kavindapadi, Erode District

Highlights:

• Kavindapadi is a leading jaggery-producing hub with extensive sugarcane fields irrigated by the Lower Bhavani Project canal.
• The jaggery powder is produced by:
  • Mechanically crushing cane
  • Slow evaporation of juice
  • Producing a fine, chemical-free jaggery powder rich in minerals
• Widely used in traditional sweets, beverages, and medicinal preparations.

4. Namakkal Kalchatti (Soapstone Cookware)

Region: Namakkal District

Features:

• Made from natural soapstone (makkal pathirangal).
• Known for heat retention, slow cooking properties, and natural non-stick behaviour.
• Kalchatti vessels have been integral to South Indian kitchens for centuries.
• Helps retain nutritional value due to uniform heat distribution.

5. Ambasamudram Choppu Saman (Wooden Toys)

Origin: Ambasamudram, Tirunelveli District

About:

• A 200-year-old craft tradition, originating in the 18th century.
• Involves handcrafted miniature wooden household items like:
  • tiny pots, pans
  • tables, chairs
  • kitchen utensils
• Traditionally made from indigenous wood varieties such as:
  • Manjal Kadamba (Neolamarckia cadamba)
  • Teak
  • Rosewood
• Known for their durability, smooth finish, and use in children’s pretend-play sets.

Cultural & Economic Significance

• Boosts rural craftsmanship and local livelihoods
• Prevents counterfeit reproductions
• Promotes cultural heritage and traditional knowledge
• Enhances national and international market visibility
• Supports Tamil Nadu’s growing GI portfolio (already among the top states in GI registrations)