Himachal Pradesh's Kangra tea gets European GI tag

Tags: State News

The European Commission (EC) has recently granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status to Kangra tea, aunique variety of tea grown in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh in India.

An Overview of the News

  • According to the notification issued by the Election Commission on March 22, the PGI status will be effective from April 11, 2023 and will help protect the authenticity and quality of Kangra tea in the European market.

  • This is a significant achievement for Kangra tea, as it joins the list of other Indian products such as Darjeeling tea, Basmati rice and Pashmina shawls, which have been accorded the same status in the European Union.

About Kangra Tea

  • It was first introduced in the mid-19th century by Dr. Jameson, a British civil surgeon who sowed tea seeds in the Kangra Valley.

  • In 1882, the Kangra tea garden won a gold medal at the Calcutta Exhibition, further enhancing its prestige.

  • A disease known as "orange rust" destroyed many tea gardens in the early 20th century, leading to a decline in the industry.

About the European Commission (EC)

  • It is the executive branch of the European Union (EU) and serves as its administrative body.

  • The President of the Commission is elected by the European Parliament and appointed by the European Council.

  • The Commission is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium and has a staff of approximately 32,000 employees.

  • The Commission ensures that EU laws and policies are implemented correctly and that Member States follow EU rules.

  • The Commission cooperates with other EU institutions, such as the European Council and the European Parliament, to shape EU policies and legislation.

  • The Commission's decisions are subject to oversight by the European Court of Justice, which interprets and applies EU law.

About Himachal Pradesh

Capital- Shimla (Summer), Dharamshala (Winter)

Chief Minister-Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu

Governor- Shiv Pratap Shukla

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