The Tamil Nadu State Council for Science & Technology (TNSCST) is seeking GI (Geographical Indications) tags for two popular local delicacies. TNSCST has reportedly filed two applications for the Madurai appalam and the Kilakarai Thothal halwa to gain GI tag, this move by the local government is aimed at helping local manufacturers maintain the quality and expand their markets.
TNSCST and the Kilakarai Chellakani Thothal Association have jointly filed application for Thothal halwa and the Appalam Vadagam Morvathal Manufacturers and Sellers Association has filed application for the Madurai appalam, before the Geographical Indications Registry last week.
Prized for Their Unique Flavour & Taste
Madurai appalam is famous for its delicate crunch, unique flavour and traditional crafting methods that use urad dal, rice flour and spices. More than 50,000 people are engaged in making appalams also known as appadam or papadum and the GI tag will help them boost their business and expand their market both at the national and international level, said S Vincent, member secretary, TNSCST.
For the unversed Madurai appalam is prepared using old-aged recipes and methods that have been in use since generations. It around 500 manufacturing units in Madurai, the appalam industry generates about `8 crore in weekly revenue, S Vincent added. The snack is consumed across india and exported to Singapore, Malaysia, Mauritius, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Gulf countries.
TNSCST along with the Kilakarai Chellakani Thothal Association have also filed application for Kilakarai Thothal halwa which is a dark-hued sweet with a rich, moist consistency, made from coconut milk, rice flour, palm sugar and cashew. This popular recipe has its roots in Indonesia, which was later brought to Sri Lanka by ancient voyagers, the recipe reached Kilakarai in Ramanathapuram centuries ago through maritime trade.