GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION (GIs)

Subject: Economy

Context: The Himachal Pradesh government is trying to obtain GIs (Geographical Indication) for five products from the state – KarsogKulth, Thangi of Pangi, Chamba Metal Crafts, ChambaChukh, and Rajmah of Bharmour.

Concept:

• KarsogKulth: Kulthi or Kulth (horse gram) is a legume grown as a kharif crop in Himachal Pradesh. Kulth grown in the Karsog area of Mandi district is believed to be particularly rich in amino acids.
• PangikiThangi: It is a type of hazelnut which grows in Pangi valley located in the north-western edge of Himachal. It is known for its unique flavour and sweetness.
• Chamba metal crafts: These include items such as metal idols and brass utensils which, historically, were made by skilled artisans in the courts of kings of Chamba. There are efforts to revive the trade, and a plate made from a brass-like alloy and having carvings of gods and goddesses is still popular.
• ChambaChukh: It’s a chutney made from green and red chillies grown in Chamba, and prepared in traditional and unique ways. The practice has largely declined in rural households of Chamba, but survives to some extent at the small-scale industrial level.
• BharmouriRajmah: It’s more specifically called the KugtaluRajmah, since it grows in the area around Kugti Pass in the Bharmour region of Chamba district. It is rich in proteins and has a unique flavour.