Punjab explores GI tag for iconic dish
Chandigarh/Amritsar: In a landmark move to protect Punjab’s rich culinary traditions, the Punjab Food Processing Department is exploring the possibility of securing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Amritsari Kulcha, one of the state’s most iconic dishes.
A GI tag is a recognition granted to products that possess a unique quality, reputation, or characteristic linked to their place of origin. Securing the tag for Amritsari Kulcha would ensure legal protection while enhancing its cultural identity and commercial potential.
The announcement was made by Rakhee Gupta Bhandari, Principal Secretary of the Food Processing Department, during a meeting at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar. The session was attended by representatives from food industry associations, processing units, and faculty from the Department of Food Science and Technology.
GI tag to enhance brand value and exports
Bhandari underlined that the GI tag would not only safeguard Amritsar’s culinary heritage but also unlock new opportunities in branding, exports, and market expansion. “This move has the potential to create jobs and strengthen the food economy of Punjab,” she said.
She described the agro-food processing sector as a “Sunshine Industry”, given its ability to generate employment and spur economic growth. According to her, building strong backward and forward linkages for Food Business Operators (FBOs) will be critical to achieving sustainable development in the sector.
Government’s vision: farm to factory to fork
Bhandari reaffirmed the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government’s commitment to fortifying Punjab’s food processing value chain. She said that under the leadership of Food Processing Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, policies are being crafted to strengthen the ecosystem “from farm to factory to fork.”
She also praised GNDU for playing a proactive role in bridging the gap between academia and industry. This collaboration, she noted, will be crucial for driving innovation and ensuring the sector remains competitive.
Focus on infrastructure and innovation
The meeting also discussed industry demands and solutions to accelerate growth in Punjab’s food processing sector. Key proposals included:
- Establishing Food Parks and Technology Exchange platforms to encourage innovation and infrastructure growth.
- Expanding processing facilities for fruits, vegetables, papad, wadian, honey, spices, and jaggery.
- Developing modern cold storage facilities with support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
- Enhancing cargo handling of perishables at Amritsar Airport to boost exports.
- Promoting honey exports through Punjab Agro as a high-potential opportunity.
Participants also stressed the importance of skilled manpower and advanced food testing labs to ensure global quality and safety standards.
Strengthening Punjab’s culinary and economic identity
Industry leaders such as Ashok Sethi, Rakesh Thukral, Surinder Lakhesar, and Dr. D.S. Sogi of GNDU joined the discussions. Collectively, they agreed that obtaining a GI tag for Amritsari Kulcha could serve as a model for protecting Punjab’s diverse food traditions while driving economic growth.
The initiative aligns with Punjab’s broader vision to establish itself as a leader in the food processing industry, while safeguarding its heritage cuisine for future generations.