In another milestone for the state’s agricultural sector, Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel, the renowned spice products of North Gujarat, have been awarded the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India‘s GI Registry.
The recognition gives both products a distinct geographical identity, strengthening their brand value and enhancing their presence in global markets.
Also read: GI tag puts Mandu’s Khurasani Imli on the global map
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said, “Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Local to Global,’ this GI tag is another step towards taking our products from village to global markets. This isn’t just a government certification; it is a tribute to the dedication of our farmers, the quality of our agricultural produce, the trust of traders, and the rich agricultural heritage of Unjha. The tag will provide both products with a distinct identity in the global market, establish them as unique brands, and further enhance the global reputation of Gujarat’s agricultural produce.”
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is awarded to products whose distinct quality, reputation, or characteristics are intrinsically linked to a specific geographical region. Granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, the GI tag is an official certification of a product’s authenticity and geographical origin. It safeguards established quality standards, protects the product’s identity, and plays a vital role in preventing the sale of counterfeit products.
With the GI tag, Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel will be recognised as certified geographical brands, improving their credibility in both domestic and global markets. The recognition will improve their market value and strengthen export opportunities. According to experts, GI-tagged products can command prices 20 to 30 per cent higher than ordinary products. This is expected to increase farmers’ incomes while giving a significant boost to the local agricultural economy.The GI tags are the result of the coordinated efforts of multiple institutions working towards a common goal. The achievement was made possible through the collaboration of the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), Unjha, the Government of India, the Department of Horticulture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Gujarat, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU), and the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Gujarat. It stands as a testament to the successful partnership among farmers, agricultural scientists, traders, and government and academic institutions.
Commenting on the achievement, Dinesh Patel, Chairman, Unjha Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), said, “The GI tags mark a historic milestone for the farmers of Unjha and the region’s spice trade. This will further strengthen the authenticity and market credibility of both products, increase their demand and acceptance in global markets, ensure better prices for farmers, and create new opportunities for exports and value addition.”
Also read: India exports 1-tonne of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi to Dubai
Over 400 products are currently registered with the Government of India’s GI Registry, including several renowned agricultural products from Gujarat such as Gir Kesar mangoes, Bhalia wheat, Kachchhi Kharek, and Amalsadi Chikoo (sapota). Now, with Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel, Gujarat has further expanded its portfolio of GI-tagged agricultural products.
The recognition will enhance the global competitiveness of Gujarat’s agricultural produce while creating greater opportunities for value addition, improved market access, and higher exports, ultimately benefiting the state’s farmers.