GI (Geographical Indication) tag for the khorasani imli or the fruit of the baobab

GI (Geographical Indication) tag for the khorasani imli or the fruit of the baobab

Subject: Environment

Section: Species in news

Context: Madhya Pradesh seeks GI tag for the fruit of the endangered baobab in Mandu

What is Baobad?

• It is Native to mainland Africa and the island country of Madagascar
• It is a deciduous tree( baobab Adansonia digitata) and  can live up to 2,000 years and is a globally threatened species.

Why it is important?

The resilient, endangered trees have supported tribal livelihoods for centuries. The fruits of baobabs are known to be nutritious and used in traditional remedies.

Where it is found?

Baobabs, while few and far in numbers across India, are considered the most abundant in Mandu town in Madhya Pradesh, where the Bhil tribe has historically preserved them

How GI tag will help?

A GI tag acts as a trademark for a product in a specific geographical region possessing unique or valuable properties. GI tag can be given to agricultural, horticultural or forestry products such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, flowers and other products of trees. The GI tag can be applied for by the producers of the concerned goods or an entity representing them. The application undergoes examination and scrutiny after which, if accepted, it goes through the process of registration.

Does MP has other GI tags?

So far, Madhya Pradesh has at least 10 GI indicators for different products such as Kadaknath black chicken and chanderi sarees, which get legal protection against unauthorised use. The tag provides the product a unique identity which helps the local community to market it better and benefit more.