The Governmment awarded Geographical Indication tag to Bihar’s Mithila Makhana. This is the fifth product from Bihar to get the GI tag. Bhagalpur’s Jardalu Mango, Katarni Dhaan (rice), Nawada’s Magahi Paan and Muzaffarpur’s Shahi Litchi have GI tag earlier.
Almost 80 per cent of India’s total Makhana or Fox Nut supply comes from Bihar. Mithila region is famous for Fox Nut cultivation and hence awarded with the GI Tag.
WHAT IS MITHILA MAKHANA?
Locally known as Makhan in Mithila, its botanical name is Euryale Ferox Salisb. This is mainly cultivated in Mithila region of Bihar and adjoining areas of Nepal. They are rich in protein and fiber. They have various micronutrients such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorous and iron. Maithili Brahmin community extensively uses and distributes makhana during the kojagara puja festival.
MITHILA MAKHANA; GOVERNMENT
After awarding the GIK tag, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in a tweet; “Mithila Makhana registered with GI Tag, farmers will get profit and it will be easier to earn. Due to Geographical Indication Tag to Mithila Makhana in the festive season, people outside Bihar will be able to use this auspicious material with reverence,”
GI TAG
According to World International Property Organization or WIPO, a GI or Geographical Indication Tag is used for products, which have specific geographical origin or have qualities that can be attributed specifically to the region. In addition, the qualities, characteristics or reputation of the product should be essentially due to the place of origin. Once a product gets this tag, any person or company cannot sell a similar item under that name. This tag is valid for a period of 10 years following which it can be renewed.
