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Alphonso Mango GI Tag: By giving Geographical Indication i.e. GI Tag, a unique identity is created for the concerned product and area. This has a positive impact on marketing. In such a situation, efforts are often made to obtain GI tag. A similar case has come to light between Maharashtra and Gujarat, which has given rise to controversy.
Alphonso Mango GI Tag: A new dispute has arisen between Maharashtra and Gujarat regarding the world famous Alphonso mango. The Valsad unit of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) in Gujarat had started the process of getting the GI (Geographical Indication) tag for ‘Valsad Hapus’ two years ago. The first hearing of this case took place on 30 October. There are still a few more hearings left, only after that a decision will be taken. Some farmers of Konkan are opposing this step. He says that getting GI tag may weaken the identity of ‘Konkan Alphonso’. Hapus of Konkan is known all over the world for its creamy and fiber-free texture. Farmers say that fake Alphonso will harm their identity.
The representative applying on behalf of BKS said that Alphonso mango is being grown from Karnataka to Surat in Gujarat for about 150–200 years. He says, we have only asked for GI tag in the name of ‘Valsad Hapus’, so that our brand value increases. Ratnagiri and Devgarh have already got the tag, so what is wrong for us too? Our mango season also starts after May, when Maharashtra’s ends. Now a dispute has arisen between Maharashtra and Gujarat regarding this issue. The tussle between farmers of both the states has intensified.
Why did the issue heat up now?
According to the report of ‘Times of India’, this issue is also gaining political color amid the local body elections. Some leaders alleged that Gujarat was taking away another ‘Maharashtrian asset’. Congress said that earlier also 16 projects were shifted from Maharashtra to Gujarat. NCP (SP) leader Rohit Pawar demanded the government to protect Konkan farmers. The traders of Vashi APMC are also divided into two sides. Some businessmen say that if Gujarat gets GI tag, it will give direct competition to Alphonso of Konkan. At the same time, many traders say that the taste, color, aroma and texture of mangoes of Valsad and Konkan are clearly different. Every hapus growing in the 700 km long Konkan-Saurashtra belt has its own unique qualities, hence comparison is wrong.
What is GI tag?
GI tag i.e. Geographical Indication is a kind of identity, which is given to something from a particular place. It states that the product is special because of a specialty, quality, or tradition associated with that region.
Who is given GI tag?
It is given to agricultural products, handicrafts, food items and traditional items. Like Darjeeling tea, Banarasi saree, Nagpur orange, Mysore painting etc.
What is the benefit of GI tag?
The biggest advantage is that it increases the credibility of the product. This proves that the genuine product can be made only at that place. This prevents counterfeit goods and increases the income of those making genuine products.
What changes after getting GI tag?
The brand value of the product increases. Farmers and artisans get better prices and their identity in the market becomes stronger. It also provides legal protection, so that no other place can use the same name.
Why is it given so much importance?
Because it gives recognition to local tradition, culture and skills. The unique products of the country also get strong recognition at the international level.
What do experts say?
Agricultural experts say that getting GI tag will benefit farmers of every region because different varieties will get their identity. A farmer from Chiplun said that the crop season of every region is different, hence the possibility of conflict in the market is less.
What is the real problem?
Farmers and traders believe that GI tag does not provide real protection. In the market, boxes of Konkan Hapus are often sold with mangoes of cheaper varieties. Even the companies making juice, pulp and oranges sell packs with the name Konkan Alphonso, but use cheap mangoes inside. Controversy is increasing regarding GI tag, but the real challenges are adulteration, wrong labeling and farmers not getting fair prices. To create an identity for the Hapus of different regions, clear rules and strict monitoring are necessary, and not competition between states.
