Odisha bats for GI Tag, global push for Cuttack’s iconic Dahibara Aloodum

Odisha MSME Minister Gokula Nanda Mallik has outlined the state government’s ongoing efforts to promote Cuttack’s signature dish, Dahibara Aloodum, and advance its journey toward obtaining a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Answering a question raised by MLA Sofia Firdous in Odisha Legislative Assembly, Mallik explained that the MSME Department is not authorised to file a GI application on its own under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. However, the department can guide and support eligible applicants, such as producer associations, entrepreneurs, or organisations that seek GI status for the street food.

Mallik said the government is prepared to extend full assistance if any stakeholder comes forward with a formal proposal.

In addition to this, the government has recommended Dahibara Aloodum to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) as Cuttack district’s signature cuisine under the ‘One District One Cuisine’ programme. 

The initiative seeks to market regional food products nationally and internationally, creating opportunities for brand recognition and economic growth.

Mallik stated that securing a GI tag would help the dish gain nationwide visibility, enabling large-scale commercial production and generating business prospects for local vendors and micro-entrepreneurs.
 
So far, 27 products from Odisha have earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, comprising 16 handicraft items, seven agricultural products, and four food specialities. The food items that hold the tag are Odisha Rasagola, Kendrapada Rasabali, Dhenkanal Magji and Similipal Kai Chutney.

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In addition, nine more products are currently undergoing the GI evaluation process. These include eight handicraft creations and one food product. Among the contenders are Bhadrak’s Palua Ladu, Bolangir’s paddy-based craft, traditional tribal ornaments from Dhenkanal, Puri’s Solapitha craft, stone cookware from Nilagiri, Mayurbhanj’s Dokra metal work, Balasore’s lacquer toys, Dhenkanal’s straw craft, and paper-mache masks from Puri.