Recent GI achievements
New GI Recognitions for Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu has added five new products to its expanding list of Geographical Indications (GI) tags, strengthening its cultural and economic identity. The newly recognised items include the Woraiyur cotton sari, Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai, Namakkal makkal pathirangal, Thooyamalli rice, and Ambasamudram choppu saman. This development highlights the State’s long-standing legacy of craftsmanship and agricultural diversity.
Tamil Nadu now holds 74 products with GI tags, placing it among the leading Indian states in protecting traditional knowledge.
Static GK fact: The GI registry office is located in Chennai, making Tamil Nadu a major centre for intellectual property protection.
Importance of GI recognition
GI tagging boosts market value, preserves heritage, and protects communities relying on traditional production. It grants exclusive rights and prevents misuse of regional names. This recognition also supports rural livelihoods by ensuring premium pricing and wider visibility.
GI tags in India are issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Static GK Tip: India’s first GI tag was granted to Darjeeling Tea in 2004.
Key features of the newly tagged products
Woraiyur cotton sari
The Woraiyur cotton sari is known for its fine handwoven texture and traditional motifs inspired by the ancient textile heritage of Tiruchirappalli. It reflects the weaving excellence of communities who have preserved this craft for generations.
Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai
Produced in the Erode district, Kavindapadi is one of Tamil Nadu’s largest jaggery powder clusters. Its traditional processing methods give the jaggery a distinct colour and aroma. The region’s centuries-old expertise in natural sweetener production makes this product culturally significant.
Namakkal makkal pathirangal
These soapstone cookware items from Namakkal are handcrafted and known for their heat retention properties. The natural stone material used in their preparation enhances both durability and traditional culinary practices.
Thooyamalli rice
Thooyamalli is an aromatic rice variety cultivated during the sambha season and takes about 135–140 days to mature. Its name means “pure jasmine,” referring to its subtle fragrance. This rice is valued for both its flavour and cultural relevance.
Ambasamudram choppu saman
These wooden toys from Tirunelveli district are crafted using age-old carving and colouring techniques. They are popular for their vibrant designs depicting everyday household items.
Growth of Tamil Nadu’s GI ecosystem
Tamil Nadu’s consistent increase in GI-recognised products shows its commitment to preserving traditional livelihoods. The state’s emphasis on promoting artisans, farmers, and rural enterprises strengthens its cultural economy.
Static GK fact: Karnataka currently holds the highest number of GI tags among Indian states, followed closely by Tamil Nadu.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
New GI Recognitions for Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Newly added GI products | Woraiyur cotton sari, Kavindapadi nattu sakkarai, Namakkal makkal pathirangal, Thooyamalli rice, Ambasamudram choppu saman |
| Total GI products in Tamil Nadu | 74 |
| Key district for jaggery powder | Kavindapadi, Erode |
| Maturity duration of Thooyamalli rice | 135–140 days |
| Law governing GI tags in India | Geographical Indications of Goods Act 1999 |
| First GI tag in India | Darjeeling Tea |
| Tamil Nadu’s significance | One of India’s leading states in GI registrations |
| Feature of Namakkal cookware | Handcrafted soapstone with high heat retention |
| Feature of Woraiyur sari | Fine cotton weave with traditional motifs |
| GI Registry location | Chennai |
