GI Tags of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, with its sweeping, dawn-lit mountains and rich cultural tapestry, has emerged as a beacon of indigenous craftsmanship through its impressive array of Geographical Indication (GI) tags. These GI tags not only serve to protect and promote the unique products crafted by the state's diverse tribal communities but also encapsulate centuries-old traditions passed down through generations. From vibrant textiles woven by the Apatani and Monpa tribes to traditional culinary delights like Khamti rice and artisanal treasures such as the Dao (sword), each GI-tagged product narrates a story of heritage, innovation, and sustainable livelihood. Let's explore some of the GI-tagged products of the state. 

Wakro Orange 

Wakro orange, famously known as Arunachal mandarin orange, is a sweet-tart, juicy orange that's grown in Arunachal Pradesh. The name Wakro Orange comes from the region where it is grown extensively, and it's the oldest cultivated fruit in the state. Since Arunachal is a sub-tropical agro-climatic zone, these oranges grow well here. 

Received GI Tag in 2015

Idu Mishmi Textile 

The Mishmi Hills in Dibang Valley and Lower Dibang Valley are home to the Idu Mishmi ethnic people in Arunachal Pradesh, who weave handloom goods known as Idu Mishmi textiles. The Idu Mishmi textiles, which come in eye-catching colours like Teei (black), Shu (bright red), and Low (white), are utilised for a wide range of products, such as wraparounds, shoulder bags, men's coats, women's blouses, and hand purses. These fabrics are distinguished by their elaborate geometric designs, which include rhomboid forms, triangles, angles, and lines. Along with their distinctive designs, these textiles are notable for their function in the Idu Mishmi tribe’s social and cultural life.

Received GI Tag in 2019 

Khamti Rice 

Khamti Rice or Arunachal Pradesh Khaw Tai short-grain is a short white rice grown by Khamti tribal farmers in Arunachal Pradesh. It has a strong aroma but has a sweet taste, unlike other rice varieties. This rice is primarily used to make traditional steamed rice dishes like "khao hai" which are often served on a plate or wrapped in leaves (tong), alongside other dishes like "Tongtep" (rice cakes), "Khawlam" (boiled rice with sesame seeds), and various fish soups. 

Received GI Tag in 2023

Yak Churpi

Another GI product that is unique to Arunachal Pradesh is the Yak Churpi, a naturally fermented milk product made from the milk of Arunachali yaks, which is a unique yak breed found in West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Churpi is an excellent source of proteins and is frequently used as a substitute for vegetables by tribal yak herders in the vegetation-starved cold and hilly mountainous regions of the state. In 2023, when it got the geographical indication tag, it became the first ever yak milk product to get the recognition. 

Received GI Tag in 2023

Tangsa Textile

Tangsa textiles are a traditional weaving craft from the Tangsa tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. The textiles are known for their vibrant colours and intricate designs and have been preserved by the Tangsa Tribe for years. This handloom is woven by the women of the tribal community, who mostly depict nature and its surroundings through vibrant colours. 

Received GI Tag in 2023

Adi Kekir

Adi Kekir is a variety of ginger produced in the East Siang, Siang, and Upper Siang districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Cultivated by the Adi tribe, this aromatic ginger is renowned for its medicinal properties, which help with everything from digestive issues to menstrual pain. Its distinct aroma and healing qualities have made it a sought-after commodity in culinary and medicinal circles.

Received GI Tag in 2024

Handmade Carpets

Handmade carpets from Arunachal Pradesh received GI tag recognition recently. It is prepared by Tibetan refugees who live in various parts of the state and are famous for their typical designs, motifs and textures. These carpets are hand-knotted using wool sourced from local sheep and the designs are deeply influenced by Tibetan art and Buddhist symbols, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage. 

Received GI Tag in 2024

Wancho Wooden Crafts

Another product from Arunachal Pradesh that was GI-tagged in 2024 was Wancho wooden crafts. These unique items feature tobacco pipes with head-shaped bowls and drinking mugs featuring warriors. The artisans also create sculptures of Lord Buddha, animals, and dolls.

Received GI Tag in 2024

Apatani Textile

Apatani textiles are handwoven fabrics from the Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. They are known for their geometric patterns including zigzag lines, diamonds, and crosses, use of natural dyes, and their durability. They are used in making shawls, called "jig-jagro" or "jilan," jackets, called "supuntarii," headgear and garments for weddings, rituals, and other cultural festivals. 

Received GI Tag in 2024

Monpa textile

Monpa textile is a vibrant, intricate fabric woven by the Monpa tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The textile is primarily made from wool and cotton, hand woven by women. It is known for its cultural significance and is used to make clothing and ceremonial items. It often features designs of mountains, animals, and celestial patterns.

Received GI Tag in 2024

Dao

Dao is a traditional handcrafted sword-like weapon used by various tribes, including the Monpa, Adi, Nyishi, and Wancho. It is an essential tool for agriculture, hunting, and rituals. The Dao features a broad, slightly curved iron blade, often with a wooden handle wrapped in cane or leather. It is crafted using traditional forging techniques passed down through generations. 

Received GI Tag in 2024

Marua Apo

Marua Apo is a traditional millet-based alcoholic beverage from Arunachal Pradesh. The main ingredient Marua, or finger millet, is a nutritious cereal grain that is commonly grown in Arunachal Pradesh. 

Received GI Tag in 2023

Galo Textile

Galo Textiles are traditional handloom textiles made by the Galo tribe, which primarily lives in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The yarn used in Galo textiles is primarily made from locally grown cotton and silk, which are spun by hand. The yarn is then dyed using natural dyes made from plant extracts, bark, and roots. These dyes produce a range of colours, including red, green, yellow, and blue.

Received GI Tag in 2024

Khalap Tea

Khalap or Phalap tea is a dark, smoky, and aromatic tea that has been brewed since the 13th century by the Singpho tribes of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The tea leaves are fried and dried under the sun to extract the optimum flavour and smoked in cylinders of bamboo to induce piquancy in the tea. 

Received GI Tag in 2024

Apong

Apong, also known as Poka, is a traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented rice that is popular among the Tani tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. It is made by fermenting cooked rice with a locally-made starter cake called E'pob, which is made from rice flour and plant ingredients. The Mishing community of Assam also adds the burnt husk of banana plants to the mixture. 

Received GI Tag in 2024