Sri Vijaya Puram, June 1: The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India has officially designated the Department of Agriculture, A&N Islands as the Nodal Department for registration and promotion of Geographical Indication (GI) tagging of unique products from the A&N Islands as per the latest guidelines from the Ministry w.e.f 24.01.2025. This initiative aims to preserve the distinctiveness of these Islands products, enhance their Market value, and boost economic opportunities for local communities.
In line with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, and with the approval of the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a State-Level Nodal Committee for obtaining Geographical Indication (GI) Registration and GI Tagging has been constituted headed by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Agriculture) Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
In addition, District-Level Nodal Committees (DLNCs) have been formed for South Andaman, North and Middle Andaman, and Nicobar Districts. Each DLNC is chaired by the Deputy Commissioner of the respective district. These Committees will play a crucial role in identifying unique local products with GI potential, supporting the preparation and submission of GI applications, and selecting suitable applicant organizations such as FPOs, producer groups, cooperatives, or SHGs. The DLNCs will also review the performance of existing GI-tagged products and oversee the collection of technical data, historical records, and traditional knowledge for GI documentation. To raise awareness, the committees will organize training sessions and workshops for farmers and other stakeholders at the district and block levels, highlighting the benefits and procedures of GI registration.