Gujarat's Unjha cumin and fennel secure GI tag, unlocking premium market access
Unjha cumin and Unjha fennel, two major agricultural products from Gujarat, have been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry. This recognition provides legal protection and strengthens their export prospects.
The GI tag is expected to boost the brand value of both products and increase their acceptance in domestic and international markets. According to the state government, GI-tagged products can command prices 20% to 30% higher than comparable non-GI products, potentially improving returns for farmers and supporting the local agricultural economy.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the recognition aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Vocal for Local' and 'Local to Global' visions. 'This isn't just a government certification; it is a tribute to the dedication of our farmers, the quality of our agricultural produce, the trust of traders, and the rich agricultural heritage of Unjha. The tag will provide both products with a distinct identity in the global market, establish them as unique brands, and further enhance the global reputation of Gujarat's agricultural produce,' Mr. Patel said.
A GI tag is granted to products whose quality, reputation, or characteristics are linked to a specific geographical region under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The certification protects the product's identity, certifies its geographical origin, and helps prevent counterfeit products.
The state government said the GI tag would improve the global credibility of Unjha cumin and fennel, strengthen their export potential, and provide legal protection to farmers, producers, and the region's traditional agricultural heritage. It added that the recognition could also create opportunities for value addition and agro-based enterprises.
The application for the GI tags was supported by the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), Unjha; the Department of Horticulture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of Gujarat; the Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU); the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Gujarat; and the Government of India.
Dinesh Patel, chairman of the Unjha APMC, described the recognition as a milestone for farmers and the region's spice trade. 'The GI tags mark a historic milestone for the farmers of Unjha and the region's spice trade. This will further strengthen the authenticity and market credibility of both products, increase their demand and acceptance in global markets, ensure better prices for farmers, and create new opportunities for exports and value addition,' he said.
With the addition of Unjha cumin and Unjha fennel, Gujarat now has an expanded list of GI-tagged agricultural products, including Gir Kesar mangoes, Bhalia wheat, Kachchhi Kharek, and Amalsadi chikoo. The state government said the latest recognition would improve the competitiveness of Gujarat's agricultural produce and create greater opportunities for exports and market access.
