GI-Tagged Dalle chilli from Sikkim makes landmark export to Solomon Islands

GANGTOK, : In a significant milestone for Sikkim’s organic agriculture sector, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, has successfully exported the first-ever consignment of GI-tagged Dalle chilli from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands.

Known for its fiery pungency, bright red colour and high nutritional value, the Dalle chilli is popular in Sikkim. With a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) ranging between 100,000 and 350,000, it is prized for both its culinary and medicinal applications. Dalee chilling is rich in vitamins A, C and E, along with potassium.

The success of this export lies in the local farmers and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in South Sikkim, particularly from the Tinkitam and Tarku regions. Through its extensive procurement network, Mevedir, a leading agri-export enterprise, sourced approximately 15,000 kg of fresh Dalle chilli, ensuring that farmers received a premium price of Rs. 250-300 per kg, significantly higher than the usual Rs. 180-200 per kg, reaffirming the economic benefits of GI tagging and international trade, informs a PIB release.

The processing of the consignment was carried out at an APEDA-funded Integrated Pack House developed by the State Horticulture department. Of the total quantity, 9,000 kg was dehydrated, while 6,000 kg was preserved for further processing and export. The dehydration process yielded a 12.5% recovery rate with 1,600 kg of fresh chillies converted into 200 kg of dried chillies for shipment.

This export marks a departure from previous indirect export routes. For the first time, Mevedir directly supplied the consignment to the Solomon Islands. The buyer from the Solomon Islands was introduced to Sikkim’s Dalle chilli during its international debut in Singapore in 2023 and subsequently sought direct sourcing, recognizing the chilli’s superior quality and authenticity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier emphasized that the North East holds the key to India’s vision for a healthier and more sustainable future. He noted that the Geographical Indication (GI) tag is not just a recognition but a transformative opportunity for farmers and artisans, unlocking new markets and ensuring economic prosperity for the region.

In 2020, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, granted the GI tag to Dalle chilli, a unique and highly pungent variety grown in Sikkim. The North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) facilitated the GI registration, strengthening the identity and marketability of this specialty product.

The Government of India has been actively promoting organic farming in the North East under the Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCD-NER) scheme, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing the production and quality of organic Dalle chilli, further boosting its appeal in international markets.

APEDA, in collaboration with the Agriculture Department of Sikkim and its Regional Office in Guwahati, played a pivotal role in facilitating this export, ensuring local farmers and FPOs benefit from global market access.

The export of Dalle chilli to the Solomon Islands is expected to enhance Sikkim’s prominence on the global spice map, opening new avenues for international trade. With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Sikkim has the potential to emerge as a key player in the global spice industry. This successful transaction serves as a testament to the increasing global recognition of India’s organic agricultural products and its commitment to expanding agri-exports worldwide.