Tamil Nadu's 'Authur betel leaves' Get GI tag
Arthur Betel leaves in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) certificate by Tamil Nadu State Agricultural Marketing Board and NABARD Madurai Agribusiness Incubation Forum.
The Athur Vattara Vetrilai Vivasayigal Sangam, a body representing growers of the Athur betel leaf, has been awarded the GI certificate. This recognition as a Geographical Indication allows Aathur betel leaves to be marketed domestically and internationally, it also highlights the marketability of the leaves.
It is known for its spicy and pungent taste and is especially used during special occasions such as temple festivals, housewarmings, and weddings.
Author betel leaves
This unique plan is exclusively found in the village of Athoor, located in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu. The betel leaves, locally known as Vetrilai, are nourished by the water of the Thamirabrani River.
These leaves are characterized by their long petioles and are available in three different varieties: nattukodi, karpoori and pachaikodi. The cultural importance of the Aathur betel nut in Tamil culture is highlighted by its mention in the 13th-century book The Travels of Marco Polo (The Venetian).
International Intellectual Property (IP) Index 2023
India has been ranked 42nd among 55 major global economies in the International Intellectual Property (IP) Index 2023 released by the US Chambers of Commerce, which is topped by the US, followed by the United Kingdom and France.
World Intellectual Property Organization
It was formed in 1967 to encourage creative activities and to promote intellectual property protection in the world. WIPO is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. World Intellectual Property Day is celebrated every year on 26 April.
