Rajmash and Sulai Honey from Jammu and Kashmir Awarded GI Tags

• 01 Sep 2023

Recently, Rajmash (red kidney beans) from Bhaderwah and Ramban Sulai honey of Jammu and Kashmir have secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags with the backing of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

Additionally, three more products from the Union Territory are in the final stages of obtaining GI tags, as confirmed by an official on Tuesday.

Key Points:

• Bhaderwah Rajmash: This premium red kidney bean variety, cultivated in Chinta Valley of Doda district, Jammu, is known for its smaller size, distinct texture, sweet nutty taste, and usage in various delicious recipes.
• Ramban Sulai Honey: Sourced from Sulai plants in the Himalayas of Ramban and Doda, this honey boasts a premium and exotic reputation globally for its unique taste.
• NABARD's Role: NABARD, in collaboration with the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom and the Department of Agriculture, initiated the process for GI tagging of nine products in December 2020.
• Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the GI tags for these two products have now been successfully obtained, bringing the total to six GI-tagged products in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
• Benefits of GI Tags: Geographical Indication (GI) tags serve as a form of intellectual property right, identifying goods originating from specific geographical locations, known for their distinct nature, quality, and characteristics.
• GI tags prevent unauthorized use of these registered goods, boost exports, enhance brand promotion at the international level, contribute to the economic prosperity of producers, and contribute to the country's GDP.