Chettikulam Small Onions Gets GI Tag: A Milestone in Agricultural Identity

1. GI Tag Achievement: On April 3, 2025, Chettikulam small onions from Tamil Nadu received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing their unique identity.
2. Region of Origin: Grown in Chettikulam and surrounding villages in Perambalur district, these onions thrive in sulphur-rich soil, enhancing their distinct qualities.
3. Unique Features: Known for their pinkish hue, uniform size, high pungency, and 15-18 layers of dried scales, they offer a longer shelf-life.
4. Cultivation Scale: Over 8,000 hectares in Perambalur produce 60,000-70,000 tonnes annually, making it a key agricultural hub.
5. Applications: Used in sambar, kaara kuzhambu, vadagam, and Siddha medicines, they are also favored as seeds across Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
6. Collaborative Effort: The GI tag application was filed in 2022 by the Tamil Nadu State Agricultural Marketing Board and Chettikulam Small Onion Farmers’ Producer Association, supported by NABARD.
7. Economic Impact: The GI tag is expected to boost market value, benefiting local farmers economically and preserving the onion’s heritage.
8. Agricultural Significance: Highlights Tamil Nadu’s rich agricultural diversity, with six products, including Chettikulam onions, receiving GI tags in 2025.
9. Soil Contribution: The sulphur-rich soil of Chettikulam enhances pungency, a key factor in its recognition and demand.
10. Farmer Benefits: Farmers anticipate increased recognition and income, strengthening rural livelihoods in the region.

Glossary

• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: A label identifying products with specific geographical origins and unique qualities tied to that region.
• Chettikulam: A village in Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu, known for small onion cultivation.
• Sambar: A South Indian lentil-based stew, often flavored with small onions.
• Kaara Kuzhambu: A spicy Tamil Nadu curry using small onions for flavor.
• Vadagam: A traditional Tamil condiment made with small onions and spices.
• Siddha Medicine: An ancient Tamil system of medicine using natural ingredients like Chettikulam onions.
• Perambalur District: A central Tamil Nadu district, significant for agriculture.
• NABARD: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, aiding rural economic initiatives.
• Pungency: The sharp, strong taste or smell, a defining trait of Chettikulam onions.
• Sulphur-Rich Soil: Soil high in sulphur content, contributing to the onions’ flavor and quality.

Link To The Original Article – https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/known-for-their-high-pungency-and-flavour-chettikulam-small-onions-reach-a-milestone/article69426422.ece