PANAJI
Goa has strengthened its Geographical Indication (GI) portfolio with five more traditional agricultural products receiving formal GI registration, reinforcing efforts to protect indigenous crops and enhance farmers’ incomes.
The newly recognised products are Goa Cashew Apple, Mussarad Mango, Maang“Hilario Mango, Khorgut Rice and Taleigao Brinjal.
Announcing the development, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the GI tags reflect Goa’s rich agricultural heritage and age-old farming wisdom, while giving a major boost to the State government’s Swayampurna Goa Mission.
The Goa Cashew Apple is closely associated with traditional Feni making and local cuisine and is increasingly being promoted for its distinctive flavour and fermentation qualities.
The Mussarad and Maang“Hilario mango varieties, earlier confined to a few farming communities, are now gaining wider recognition for their aroma and taste.
Khorgut Rice, a traditional paddy variety cultivated in the low-lying Khazan lands, is known for its salt tolerance and suitability to Goa’s coastal farming conditions.
Taleigao Brinjal, grown for generations in the village it is named after, is valued for its soft texture, mild sweetness and versatility in Goan dishes.
The Chief Minister said the GI recognition would empower farmers, preserve indigenous varieties, improve market access and create sustainable livelihood opportunities in rural areas.
“By safeguarding Goa’s unique produce and encouraging value addition, these GI tags will contribute to economic growth, promote agri-entrepreneurship and ensure rural prosperity, while showcasing Goa’s distinct identity on the global stage,” Sawant said.
With the addition of these five products, Goa continues to expand its GI list. The State had earlier secured GI status for several iconic items, including Mancurad Mango, Bebinca, Agassaim Brinjal, seven-sided okra (saat-shiro bhendo), Moira Banana, Harmal Chillies, Feni, Khola Chillies and Khajem.
