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The Virgin Coconut Oil from Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a high-quality, organic product extracted utilising ancient methods.
As the name itself implies, these are a variety of coconuts that grow in the Nicobar Island of India and are known for their incredible health benefits. (Photo: Shutterstock)
In a significant move to preserve India’s cultural heritage and boost economic opportunities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 118th episode of Mann Ki Baat, announced Geographical Indication (GI) tags for as many as seven unique food products from Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Among these, the PM hailed Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich Virgin Coconut Oil, Nicobar Coconut and Andaman Karen Musley Rice for their amazing benefits and cultural significance.
But what makes these products so special?
Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich Virgin Coconut Oil
The Virgin Coconut Oil from Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a high-quality, organic product extracted utilising ancient methods passed down from the ancient Nicobarese people. It is known for its health advantages, including pain relief and skin care, as well as its high antioxidant content. Also, being rich in MCT content, the oil can help with fat burning, weight loss and can provide a quick source of energy.
Furthermore, the oil is unrefined, unbleached and free of preservatives or chemicals. Now with the GI tag certification from the Government of India, the oil established its status as a sign of authenticity and excellence, paving the road for international reputation.
Andaman Karen Musley Rice
Musley rice, grown by the Karen community in the Andaman Islands, is an organic, monocarpic variety grown with traditional, sustainable agricultural methods. With its deep ecological and cultural value, it promotes food security while conserving biodiversity, reflecting the community’s healthy relationship with the environment and dependence on natural farming practices.
However, the GI recognition from the GOI will now not only promote the product’s unique identity but will also significantly improve the financial situation of local farmers.
Nicobar Coconut
As the name itself implies, these are a variety of coconuts that grow in the Nicobar Island of India and are known for their incredible health benefits like skincare, pain relief, cardiovascular health and rich fibre and vitamin content. These are also popular for its rich flavour and high oil content.
To process these coconuts, Nicobarese people collect the fallen coconuts, remove the husk and let it dry in the sun. However, to obtain the oil, coconuts are shredded by hand and cold-pressed between trees.
Notably, this coconut type serves as the foundation for the popular Virgin Coconut Oil industry, which is economically and culturally significant to the Nicobar Islands.
Apart from these, other food products from Andaman and Nicobar Islands that received GI recognition include Nicobari Mat (Chatrai-hileuoi), Padauk Wood Craft, Nicobari Hodi (outrigger canoe) and Nicobari Hut (To Chanvi Pati Nyi hupul).
