Jaderi namakatti

Oct. 16, 2023

Recently, the Jaderi namakatti was given the GI tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai.

About Jaderi namakatti:

  • These are clay sticks that are white in colour, usually available in finger-like shape with a smooth texture. 
  • Jaderi is a small village in Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu.
  • There are around 120 families in Cheyyar taluk whose primary occupation has been the making of namakatti for more than hundreds of years now.
  • Namakatti is made up of the rich deposit of hydrous silicate minerals that form fine grain particles of clay.
  • The clay is processed and shaped in a finger like structure.
  • The production of namakatti depends on the climatic condition as it needs a lot of sunlight to dry.
  • It is used to adorn the foreheads of idols, men, and temple elephants as well as traditionally to treat stretch marks caused by by childbirth.

Key facts about Geographical Indication

  • It is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
  • This is typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts and industrial products.
  • The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
  • This GI tag is valid for 10 years following which it can be renewed.