About Hathei Chilli:
- It is commonly known as the Sirarakhong chilly.
- It thrives well only in the climatic condition of the Sirarakhong village, which is situated about 66 km from Imphal, Manipur.
- This indigenous chilli variety is cultivated under the jhum system on the slopes.
- Features of Hathei Chilli:
- It is one of the best varieties of chilli in the world and its distinctive colour, taste, size and shape is typical of the variety grown in Sirarakhong village.
- It has a high demand both inside and outside the state for its deep red colour and special taste.
- Its cultivation serves as the main source of income for residents of Tangkhul Naga-dominated Sirarakong village
- It has an extremely high American Spice Trade Association (ASTA) colour value of 164. (The extractable colour of chilli is usually expressed using ASTA values).
- Health Benefits: It works as a good anti-oxidant and possesses high calcium and Vitamin C levels.
- This chilli received the Geographical Indication Tag (GI) in 2021.
What is a Geographical Indications Tag?
- The geographical origin of a product is indicated by a GI tag.
- It is given to foods, handicrafts, industrial items, wine and spirits, and agricultural products.
- The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999 mandates the use of GI tags.
- They are granted by the Geographical Indication Registry, which is part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade.
