The coastal state of Goa has significantly enriched its cultural and agricultural heritage this week, as its collection of officially recognized Geographical Indication (GI) products expanded to a total of 15. This milestone was achieved with the addition of five distinctive local agricultural items, marking a proud moment for the state's farming community.
What Are the New GI-Tagged Products?
The newly protected items include two unique mango varieties: the Goa Hilario (also known as Manghilar or Mangilar) and the Mussarat (Monserrate or Musharad). They are joined by the Taleigao brinjal, the Goa cashew apple (kaju apple), and the traditional Korgut khazan rice variety. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant emphasized that all five products receiving the GI tag this year are agricultural, highlighting the state's focus on its agrarian roots.
"These GI tags protect Goa’s indigenous crops, empower our farmers, enhance agri-horticulture value, and contribute to building a self-reliant and prosperous Goa," stated CM Sawant. The recognition follows a report by the Times of India on December 10, which noted that these items had cleared initial scrutiny and entered a mandatory 120-day waiting period after being advertised by the GI authorities.
Significance and Unique Qualities
Each of the newly tagged products carries a rich legacy and specific qualities. The Korgut rice is an heirloom paddy cultivated primarily in low-lying khazan lands, prized for its remarkable salt tolerance. Generations of farmers in Taleigao village have cultivated the Taleigao brinjal, which is celebrated for its superior texture and taste.
The Goa cashew apple is integral to the traditional production of the state's iconic feni and is renowned for its distinctive flavour and excellent fermentation qualities. Meanwhile, the Mussarat and Hilario mangoes, once cherished mainly within specific farming circles, are now gaining wider appreciation for their exceptional aromatic properties and unique taste profiles.
Path Forward and Future Goals
Deepak Parab, the state nodal officer for GI registration, outlined the future roadmap. "All required efforts will be taken with the support of the state, central, and other agencies to promote these products as GI products, empower producers, and make the Swayampurna Goem mission a lucrative affair," he told TOI.
This recent success is part of a larger, ongoing initiative. Levinson Martins, former director of the state's science and technology department, revealed that the process began five years ago with a list of 25 items. "We initiated GI for 25 items five years ago, and so far, we have accomplished many from that list," Martins said. He expressed hope that the remaining items would also gain recognition and urged the department to push for heritage items like the kunbi saree, Goan fish curry, and Goan pao bhaji to receive GI tags.
"We should preserve these unique items, and the GI tag will ensure that the farmers and producers get their due profits. Efforts must be made to popularise these items among tourists," Martins added, highlighting the potential for economic and cultural tourism.
Prior to this addition, Goa's GI portfolio already included celebrated products such as bebinca, Goan khajem, cashew feni, khola chilli, Mancurad mango, Agasaim brinjal, Harmal chilli, myndoli banana, cashew kernel, and seven-ridge okra. The expansion to 15 GI tags solidifies Goa's commitment to preserving its unique biodiversity and supporting its local agricultural economy.
