Hathei chilli and Tamenglong orange, grown extensively in Manipur, have been granted GI tag. 

This was informed by Manipur chief minister Biren Singh on Friday morning. 

CM Biren Singh expressed happiness over the development, terming it a “historic day”. 

“What a great start to the day for Manipur! I’m really happy to share that 2 (two) products of Manipur viz Hathei Chilly & Tamenglong orange have been granted GI Tag. This is a historic milestone in the history of Manipur which will increase the income of the farmers immensely,” Manipur CM Biren Singh tweeted. 

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Hathei chilli or umoruk as it is called in the local dialect is considered to be God’s gift and the pride of Ukhrul. 

Hathei chilli thrives only in the Mahadev hills surrounding the remote Tangkhul Naga inhabited Sirarakhong village in Ukhrul district. 

This indigenous chilli variety is cultivated under the jhum system on the slopes. 

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Meanwhile, Tamenglong orange is a species of mandarin group is a unique fruit crop found only in Tamenglong district which contributes over 50 per cent of the state’s annual production. 

It is famous especially for its well-blended sweetness and acidic taste. Usually, each fruit contains 10-14 pods. 

Manipur has been celebrating the Orange Festival every December for the last 15 years to promote Tamenglong orange.