About Koraput Kalajeera Rice

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Context:

Recently, Koraput Kalajeera Rice,’ an aromatic rice, has got Geographical Indications status.

Relevance:

GS III: Indian Economy

Dimensions of the Article:

Traditional Rice: Kalajeera rice is a traditional aromatic variety of rice that has been domesticated by the farmers of Koraput district in Odisha, India, over many generations.
Nicknamed ‘Prince of Rice’: This variety of rice is often referred to as the ‘Prince of Rice’ due to its exceptional qualities.
Ancient Conservation: The ancestors of the current tribal communities in Koraput have cultivated Kalajeera rice in the region for thousands of years, contributing significantly to the conservation of this crop.
Aromatic Appeal: Kalajeera rice is renowned for its unique features, including its black color, delightful aroma, taste, and texture, making it popular among rice consumers.
Health Benefits: According to ancient texts, Kalajeera rice is associated with several health benefits. It is believed to enhance memory, regulate diabetes, increase hemoglobin levels, and boost metabolism. Additionally, it possesses various medicinal properties, including being antispasmodic, stomachic, carminative, antibacterial, astringent, and sedative.
Cultivation: This fragrant rice variety is primarily grown in specific areas of Koraput district, including Tolla, Patraput, Pujariput, Baliguda, and Mohuli.

Geographical Indications of Goods indicate the country or place of origin of a product.
They assure consumers of the product’s quality and distinctiveness derived from its specific geographical locality.
GI tags are an essential component of intellectual property rights (IPRs) and are protected under international agreements like the Paris Convention and TRIPS.

Geographical Indications registration in India is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
The registration and protection are administered by the Geographical Indication Registry under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade (DIPIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The registration is valid for 10 years, and it can be renewed for further periods of 10 years each.

GI tags provide a unique identity and reputation to products based on their geographical origin.
The first product in India to receive a GI tag was Darjeeling tea.
Karnataka has the highest number of GI tags with 47 registered products, followed by Tamil Nadu with 39.

Any association, organization, or authority established by law can be a registered proprietor of a GI tag.
The registered proprietor’s name is entered in the Register of Geographical Indication for the applied product.
Protection and Enforcement:
Geographical Indications protect the interests of producers and prevent unauthorized use of the product’s name or origin.
Enforcement of GI rights helps maintain the quality and reputation of the products associated with their specific geographical regions.