Traditional Products Gain National Recognition
Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Garland Receive GI Tag, Showcasing Tamil Nadu’s Rich Cultural Heritage : In a significant move to promote regional identity and traditional craftsmanship, the Government of India granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags in April 2025 to two iconic Tamil Nadu products—Kumbakonam betel leaf from Thanjavur and the Thovalai flower garland from Kanyakumari. With these inclusions, Tamil Nadu’s total GI-certified items now stand at 62, further reinforcing the state’s rich cultural and economic heritage.
Protecting Heritage Through GI Status
The Geographical Indication tag is a powerful tool for preserving local identity. It safeguards native products from duplication, supports regional branding, and encourages export opportunities. For rural artisans and small-scale farmers, this tag ensures better pricing, quality assurance, and access to global markets while preserving traditional practices and environmental uniqueness.
Kumbakonam Betel Leaf: From River Soil to Global Market
Grown in the fertile plains of the Cauvery River delta, especially in regions like Thiruvaiyaru, Thiruvidaimarudur, Papanasam, and Rajagiri, the Kumbakonam betel leaf is known for its distinct aroma and smooth taste. This leaf has cultural and religious importance in Tamil households. With GI protection, its agricultural value and export demand are expected to rise, creating new income streams for local cultivators.
Thovalai Garland: A Living Art of Devotion
Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Garland Receive GI Tag, Showcasing Tamil Nadu’s Rich Cultural Heritage :
The Thovalai flower garland, crafted mainly by women artisans in southern Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala, represents an ancient temple tradition. Made with red, white, and green flowers, it showcases a signature weaving pattern passed down generations. The GI tag ensures authenticity and respect for this traditional craftsmanship, while also empowering women-led rural enterprises through branding and market outreach.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
Feature | Details |
Products Awarded GI | Kumbakonam Betel Leaf, Thovalai Flower Garland |
GI Tag Approval Date | April 2025 |
Gazette Notification Date | November 30, 2024 |
Geographical Region | Thanjavur (Betel Leaf), Kanyakumari (Garland) |
Key Characteristics | Betel Leaf – Cauvery Basin Flavour; Garland – Artistic Weaving |
Total GI Products in TN | 62 |
Benefits of GI Tag | Market Access, Cultural Identity, Export Boost |