Kolinji Set to Join Kerala’s List of GI-Tagged Products

Speedy Summary

• Kerala Agricultural University’s Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Cell is preparing paperwork to register Alpinia galanga (wild ginger) for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
• Wild ginger, known locally as ‘kolinji’ or ‘malayinji,’ is primarily cultivated in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki districts as an intercrop on rubber plantations.
• The rhizome of wild ginger has applications in conventional medicine and is a key ingredient in pain balms.It also serves as a natural repellent against animals like monkeys.
• Farmers in Kerala export the product to Southeast Asia,where it has demand in countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia.
• Seven handicraft products,two textile products from Kerala – along wiht other items from different states – are currently awaiting GI tags under provisions of the Geographical Indications of goods Act (1999).
• India has granted GI tags to 697 goods; however, registration for another 659 items remains pending.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The potential GI tag for Alpinia galanga could offer significant benefits to farmers cultivating the crop in Kerala by creating stronger branding opportunities both domestically and internationally. This recognition may further contribute to ensuring fair prices for their produce while protecting its unique qualities from imitation or misuse. With its utilization spanning medicines and repelling applications, wild ginger seems poised to join the ranks of agricultural products promoting sustainable practices.

Kerala’s commendable efforts in seeking collective recognition for indigenous crafts and agricultural goods reflect an ongoing push toward safeguarding cultural heritage while expanding market visibility through legal frameworks like GI tagging. However, experts highlight the importance of robust protections post-registration to fully realize these benefits.

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