- Geographical Indications (GI) Registry in Chennai has granted GI tags to eight traditional products from Assam, particularly associated with the Bodo tribe.
- List of Products Granted GI Tags –
- Variants of Rice Beer by Bodo Traditional Brewers Association:
- Bodo Jou Gwran: A traditional rice beer with the highest alcohol content (~16.11%) among Bodo rice beers. It is integral to Bodo culture; consumed during festivals and rituals.
- Maibra Jou Bidwi (Maibra Jwu Bidwi or Maibra Zwu Bidwi): A revered rice beer served as a welcome drink. It is made by fermenting half-cooked rice (mairong) with less water. Amao (a natural source of yeast) is added to initiate fermentation.
- Bodo Jou Gishi: A traditionally fermented rice-based alcoholic beverage. It is consumed during cultural ceremonies and believed to have medicinal properties. It is considered a gift from Lord Shiva.
- Traditional Food Products by Association of Traditional Food Products:
- Bodo Napham: A dish made from fermented fish, prepared anaerobically in a sealed container over 2-3 months. It is essential part of Bodo cuisine, known for its unique flavor.
- Bodo Ondla: A rice powder curry flavored with garlic, ginger, salt, and alkali. It is commonly consumed dish, showcasing traditional cooking methods.
- Bodo Gwkha (also known as Gwka Gwkhi): A special dish prepared during the Bwisagu festival. It is associated with New Year celebrations and springtime rituals.
- Bodo Narzi: A semi-fermented food made from jute leaves (Corchorus capsularis). It is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, calcium, and magnesium.
- Traditional Woven Cloth by Association of Traditional Bodo Weavers:
- Bodo Aronai: A small, beautiful cloth measuring 1.5-2.5 meters long and 0.5 meter wide. It is worn as a scarf or stole; symbolizes respect and honor. It features motifs inspired by nature, including trees, flowers, and birds.
| Geographical Indication (GI) Tag is a sign used on products with a specific geographical origin possessing qualities or a reputation due to that origin. It is administered by Geographical Indications Registry, under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Bodo Tribe is one of the largest ethnolinguistic groups in Assam. Bodo language is recognized under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Governed under the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). Bwisagu Festival is the most significant festival of the Bodo tribe, celebrating the New Year and spring. It includes dancing, singing, and preparation of traditional foods like Bodo Gwkha. |
Dig Deeper: Focus on details of Northeastern India’s tribes and their unique attributes
