Bhubaneswar: Efforts to secure Geographical Indication (GI) tags for Odisha’s traditional agricultural and food products have gained momentum, with applications for three products reportedly nearing the final stage.

Dhenkanal’s Pala Baigana (a variety of brinjal), Sambalpur’s Sarasatia (a traditional sweet), and the famous Manikapatana Dahi (yogurt) from the Puri-Chilika region are among the products for which applications are in the final stages, according to OUAT Vice-Chancellor Professor Pravat Kumar Roul.

Speaking on the occasion of the 65th Foundation Day of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Roul said the necessary information and documents related to the products had been submitted as part of the GI tag process.

According to him, emphasis has been placed on documenting the traditional preparation method, ingredients and historical significance of Manikapatana Dahi. Detailed information on its heritage and distinctive production practices has been collected and submitted to support the application, added the OUAT VC.

Similarly, efforts are also underway to obtain GI recognition for Badi (sun-dried lentil dumpling) from Keonjhar district and the special variety of black gram known as ‘Fenua Biri’, which is used to prepare the traditional product.

The Fenua Biri variety is cultivated in the Banspal area of Keonjhar and is known for producing high-quality Badi. Necessary documentation has reportedly been submitted as part of the initiative to secure geographical recognition for the products, Roul said.

“A GI tag is expected to provide these traditional products with a distinct identity and strengthen their market potential. It could also help local farmers, artisans and producers gain better economic returns while preserving traditional production practices,” he stated.

According to the OUAT VC, GI recognition would further promote Odisha’s rich agricultural and culinary heritage at the national and international levels, giving greater visibility to the state’s unique traditional products.