Kumbakonam Vetrilai (Betel Leaf) and Thovalai Maanikka Maalai (Flower Garland) have been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tag by Geographical Indication (GI) Registry of India. These additions further strengthen Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage of unique, region-specific products.
GI Tag Applications and Approval Process
The application for the Kumbakonam betel leaf was filed by the Vettrilai Urpathiyalargal Nalasangam, facilitated by the Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Rural Development Research Centre, Coimbatore.
The application for the Thovalai Maanikka Maalai was submitted by the Thovalai Maanikkamaalai Kaivinai Kalaingargal Nalasangam, with support from the Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation and the Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre – Chennai (MSME-Technology Development Centre, Chennai).
Both products were enlisted in the GI registry in November 2024 and officially received the GI tag after four months.
Tamil Nadu now has 62 GI-tagged products, including 11 from Thanjavur district alone.
Significance of GI Tag for Tamil Nadu
Recognizing Kumbakonam Betel Leaf and Thovalai Flower Garland highlights Tamil Nadu’s agricultural and handicraft heritage.
The GI tag protects the traditional knowledge and livelihood of betel farmers and garland artisans.
Enhances marketability, boosts rural economy, and ensures global recognition of Tamil Nadu’s unique products.
About Kumbakonam Betel Leaf (Vetrilai)
The heart-shaped, aromatic betel leaves are widely cultivated in the Cauvery Delta region, particularly in Thanjavur and Tiruvarur districts.
Major cultivation areas include Thiruvaiyaru, Papanasam, Thiruvidaimarudhur, Kumbakonam, Valaigaman, Ayyampettai, Swamimalai, and Rajagiri.
Unique Features:
- Grows in the fertile Cauvery river basin with distinctive qualities due to the soil and water conditions.
- Known for digestive properties and aromatic richness.
- Has been cultivated for centuries, along with paddy and sugarcane in the region.
About Thovalai Maanikka Maalai (Flower Garland)
Thovalai, a village in Kanniyakumari district, is renowned for this unique, intricate garland-making art form.
Special Features:
- Crafted using red and white oleander flowers, roses, and nochi leaves, arranged to resemble gemstones (Maanikka – meaning ruby/gem).
- The flowers are carefully folded and tied in a bead-like manner, giving the garland a jewel-studded appearance.
- A centuries-old traditional art passed down through generations in Thovalai.
- The artisans of Thovalai are highly skilled and can identify garlands based on their technique and quality.
Understanding Geographical Indication (GI) Tags
GI tags protect unique products with specific geographical origins, ensuring authenticity and preventing unauthorized use.
GI Recognition: Recognized as a form of intellectual property under:
- Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
- Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
GI Tag In India:
GI tags are governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The Geographical Indications Registry, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, grants GI tags.
Eligibility for GI Tag Application:
- Any association, traders’ group, or organization can apply.
- Must provide historical records and evidence proving the product’s uniqueness.