From Spice To Sustainability: Unveiling North East India’s Agriculture Treasures

FROM SPICE TO SUSTAINABILITY: UNVEILING NORTH EAST INDIA’S AGRICULTURE TREASURES

Introduction:

• Ashtalakshmi 2024 is a vibrant celebration of North East India’s culture, craftsmanship, and agricultural heritage.
• The event showcases the region’s treasures, from handwoven textiles to organic produce and aromatic spices.
• Underlying this celebration is a deeper narrative of resilience and heritage, driven by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a prosperous and sustainable future.

PM MODI’S VISION

• PM Modi emphasized that North East India, with its abundant natural resources and commitment to organic farming, is uniquely positioned to drive India’s vision for a healthier and sustainable future.
• Key agricultural products in the region, such as millet, rice, bamboo, and spices, are more than commodities—they represent the region’s rich identity and potential.
• The Geographical Indication (GI) tag has played a critical role in preserving and promoting these agricultural products, ensuring their recognition on the global stage.

AGRICULTURE TREASURES OF NORTH EAST

• The region is rich in traditional agricultural practices and organic farming
• Several states in North East India have earned GI tags for their unique agricultural products, which are now gaining recognition both locally and globally.

Arunachal Pradesh:

• Adi Kekir Ginger from Dibang Valley:
  • Cultivated by the Adi tribe, this aromatic ginger is known for its medicinal properties such as aiding in digestive health and menstrual pain relief.
  • The ginger’s distinct aroma and healing qualities make it highly sought after in both culinary and medicinal
  • Other GI-tagged products from Arunachal Pradesh include Wakro Orange and Monpa Maize, which also celebrate the state’s agricultural legacy.

Sikkim

• Dalle Khursani (Red Pepper):
  • This fiery red pepper is grown in organic conditions and has become famous for its pungency and medicinal properties.
  • Over 5,000 families in Sikkim rely on the cultivation of this pepper for their livelihood.
  • Other notable GI products from Sikkim include:
    • Sikkim Large Cardamom
    • Temi Tea
    • Sikkim Orchids
    • Sikkim Orange
• These products embody sustainable economic growth, aligning with the broader vision of connecting tradition with global markets.

Nagaland

• Naga King Chilli (Raja Mircha):
  • Known as one of the hottest chilies in the world, the Raja Mircha is grown in the high-altitude, humid climate of Nagaland, contributing to its intense heat and unique flavor.
  • This chili plays a vital role in Naga cuisine, adding spice and depth to local dishes.
  • Other GI-tagged products from Nagaland include:
    • Naga Tree Tomato
    • Chak Hao Rice (Black Rice)
    • Naga Cucumber
  • These products reflect the region’s rich agricultural heritage and growing market value.

Assam

• Kaji Nimu (Lemon):
  • This distinctive variety of lemon is celebrated for its size, aroma, and sharp tang, and is a key ingredient in Assamese cuisine and traditional remedies.
  • Assam’s agricultural wealth extends beyond Kaji Nimu to include:
    • Tezpur Litchi
    • Joha Rice (aromatic rice)
    • Bodo Keradapini Spices
    • Boka Chaul Rice
  • These GI-tagged products elevate Assam’s agricultural identity, contributing significantly to its local economy and cultural heritage.

SIGNIFICANCE OF GI TAG

• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag:
  • The GI tag is a significant tool for protecting and promoting the unique agricultural products of North East India. It helps:
    • Preserve cultural heritage.
    • Empower local communities by providing access to global markets.
    • Ensure economic prosperity by enhancing product value and recognition.
• Empowerment through GI:
  • For the farmers and artisans, the GI tag is not merely a recognition but a lifeline, opening doors to new opportunities and global recognition.

ROLE OF ASHTALAXMI

• Ashtalakshmi 2024 highlights North East India’s natural and cultural wealth, celebrating the region’s agriculture and handloom traditions on a global stage.
• The event showcased a wide array of organic produce and handcrafted products, linking local heritage with global sustainability and economic growth.

EMPOWERING LOCAL COMMUNITIES

PM Modi’s Vision:

• • PM Modi highlighted that the North East is pivotal to India’s vision for a healthier and sustainable future, underscoring its role in connecting Emotion, Economy, and Ecology.
  • The agricultural treasures of North East India are cultural symbols that represent a commitment to sustainable living and empowering the local communities.

North East India’s agricultural treasures, empowered by the Geographical Indication tag, represent the convergence of tradition, culture, and sustainability. With the support of PM Modi’s vision, the region is poised to play a significant role in India’s sustainable future and global agricultural leadership.

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