GI Tags in Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Yak Churpi, Khaw Tai and Tangsa Textile

Introduction

  • A geographical indication (GI) tag is a name or sign used on products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.
  • The featured products are Arunachal Yak Churpi, Khaw Tai (Khamti rice), and Tangsa textile.

Why in news?

  • Arunachal Pradesh has recently received GI tags for Arunachal Yak Churpi, Khaw Tai (Khamti rice), and Tangsa textile.

Background

  • Arunachal Yak Churpi:Derived from the milk of the Arunachali yak, a rare breed found primarily in the West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Obtained from yaks reared by Brokpas, a tribal community known for expertise in yak husbandry.
  • Pastoralists practise seasonal migration, taking yaks to higher altitudes during summers and descending to mid-altitude mountainous regions in winters, as yaks cannot survive at lower altitudes during summer.
  • Khaw Tai (Khamti rice):
  • A chewy sticky rice variety from the Namsai region.
  • Cultivated by traditional Khampti tribal farmers.
  • Tangsa textile: Crafted by the Tangsa tribe of Changlang district.
  • Renowned for exotic designs and vibrant colours.

Significance

  • Arunachal Yak Churpi:Rich in proteins and a vital source of nutrition in the vegetation-scarce, cold, hilly mountainous regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Tangsa textile: Reflects the cultural richness of the region.

Facts/General knowledge

  • Examples of GIs include Darjeeling Tea and Kanchipuram Silk.
  • Geographical indications are recognised as part of intellectual property rights under Articles 1(2) and 10 of the Paris Convention and under Articles 22 to 24 of the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
  • India, as a World Trade Organisation (WTO) member, implemented the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999, effective on 15 September 2003, to protect such indications.
  • A registered GI is valid for 10 years and can be renewed for further periods of 10 years each.

Kopra Reservoir – Chhattisgarh’s First Ramsar Site

Introduction

  • Chhattisgarh has entered India’s wetland conservation map with the declaration of Kopra Reservoir as its first Ramsar site.
  • Ramsar recognition is given only to wetlands of international importance, highlighting the growing role of central Indian wetlands in biodiversity protection and climate resilience.

Why in news?

  • Kopra Reservoir has been declared Chhattisgarh’s first Ramsar site.

Background

  • Kopra Reservoir is located in the Baloda Bazar-Bhatapara district of Chhattisgarh, a region dominated by agriculture and seasonal rivers.
  • The reservoir was originally constructed for irrigation and water storage, but over time developed the characteristics of a natural wetland.

Significance

  • Recognition brings better protection, scientific management, and sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities dependent on the reservoir.
  • Wetlands like Kopra act as natural buffers against climate-related disasters such as floods and droughts.
  • Functions include: Absorbing excess rainwater during monsoon and reducing flooding.
  • Recharging groundwater used for drinking and farming.
  • Regulating local temperature and humidity.
  • Improving water quality by trapping sediments and pollutants.
  • Storing carbon and helping reduce the impact of climate change.

Facts/General knowledge

  • Location notes: Kopra Reservoir: Baloda Bazar-Bhatapara district, Chhattisgarh.
  • Kopra Wetland (Jalashay): Bilaspur district, Chhattisgarh.
  • Ecological profile: Freshwater wetland with rich bird diversity due to food availability, nesting sites, and safe resting areas.
  • Documented presence of 161 bird species.
  • 103 resident species that depend on the wetland throughout the year.
  • 58 migratory species that use it as a seasonal stopover site.
  • Conservation-relevant species:Endangered: Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus).
  • Vulnerable: Common Pochard, Woolly-necked Stork, Lesser Adjutant Stork.
  • Near Threatened: Painted Stork, Black-headed Ibis, Black-tailed Godwit.
  • Vegetation support: Aquatic plants: Ipomea carnea, Otellia alismoides, Cyperaceae species.
  • Surrounding trees: Acacia nilotica (Babool) and Ficus religiosa (Peepal) provide nesting and roosting sites.