Current Affairs-Topics

GI Tag for Virgin Coconut Oil Recognized

In the 118th episode of “Mann Ki Baat” aired on January 19, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a significant initiative transforming the lives of tribal women in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The focus was on Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) production — a venture that not only promotes local resources but also uplifts women economically and socially.

This spotlight underscores the government’s broader goal of empowering rural and tribal communities, especially women, by encouraging traditional industries and enabling them to access national and international markets.

Women at the Heart of VCO Production

The production of Virgin Coconut Oil, traditionally a home-based and manual process, is being scaled through the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These SHGs allow women to pool their resources, collaborate on production, and receive training in branding, packaging, and marketing.

By organizing into SHGs, women gain access to both financial support and decision-making platforms — two essential components of economic independence.

What makes this initiative even more significant is that it targets tribal communities, helping women who have historically had limited access to structured employment or enterprise opportunities.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: A Game-Changer

  • One of the most remarkable achievements highlighted in this episode is the recent Geographical Indication (GI) tag granted to Virgin Coconut Oil from the Nicobar district.

  • This GI tag marks the oil’s authenticity and origin, making it more appealing and trustworthy in global markets.

  • It is expected to boost exports and raise demand for the product, directly benefiting the women who produce it.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the GI tag would not only help the product stand out but also put the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on the map as a source of high-quality, traditional, and chemical-free coconut oil.

Promoting Traditional Knowledge in a Modern Market

Virgin Coconut Oil from the Nicobar region is made using age-old, traditional methods — unrefined, unbleached, and free from chemicals or preservatives. These practices ensure that the oil retains its nutritional and medicinal properties, meeting the rising global demand for natural and organic products.

By combining these traditional methods with modern marketing tools, the initiative represents a perfect blend of heritage and innovation.

Final Thoughts

The Mann Ki Baat episode served as more than just an announcement — it was a celebration of women-led grassroots transformation. Through self-help groups, skills training, and a prestigious GI tag, tribal women in Andaman and Nicobar are gaining the tools they need to take control of their financial futures and contribute to global markets.

This initiative is a model for inclusive development, showcasing how empowering women through local resources and traditional knowledge can lead to sustainable growth for entire communities.

More Related Articles

Aurangabad Station Renamed 2025

In a historic development reinforcing Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, Aurangabad station was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Railway Station. The announcement was made by the Central

Bajrang Setu Rishikesh Opening 2025

Rishikesh, one of India’s most renowned spiritual and tourist destinations, is set to witness a significant infrastructural development with the construction of the Bajrang Setu Rishikesh. T

Calcium Carbide Gun Dangers

Every year, Diwali brings joy, lights, and celebrations across India. However, a dangerous new trend involving calcium carbide guns has overshadowed the festivities in Madhya Pradesh, leaving more

Darbar Move J&K 2025

The Darbar Move J&K is a unique administrative tradition in Jammu and Kashmir where the government shifts its offices between Jammu and Srinagar with the changing seasons. After a four-year pa

Haryana Panchayat Grants 2025

  In a major move to strengthen grassroots governance, the Union Government has released over ₹730 crore to support Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) in Gujarat and Haryana. Out of this, a significa

GRAP 2 Delhi Restrictions 2025

Delhi has once again come under the spotlight due to rising air pollution levels ahead of Diwali 2025. The National Capital Territory is approaching the ‘very poor’ category on the Air

Thirumalapuram Iron Age Excavations

Recent excavations by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) at the Thirumalapuram Iron Age site in the Tenkasi district have revealed one of the most significant archaeo

ARISE Cities Forum 2025

The ARISE Cities Forum 2025 marked a historic milestone in urban climate action, emphasising the role of cities as frontline actors in tackling climate change. Held on October 9, 2025, in New Delh

VGRC Mehsana 2025 Highlights

In a significant step toward balanced regional development, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the first-ever Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC Mehsana 2025) on October 9,

India’s First Child Marriage Free District

The Child Marriage Free India campaign was initiated in August 2024 with the objective of eliminating child marriage nationwide. The campaign emphasizes child rights in India, social developm

Toppers

anil kumar
Akshay kuamr
geeta kumari
shubham