Imphal: The Tamenglong orange, a member of the mandarin family and a unique fruit crop in Manipur, and a rare chilli variety known locally as Sirarakhong Hathei chilli have been given the Geographical Indication (GI) label.

"What a great start to the day for Manipur! I'm really happy to share that two products of Manipur viz Hathei chili & Tamenglong orange have been granted GI Tag by Government of India," Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh wrote on Facebook, "This is a historic milestone in the history of Manipur & it will increase the income of the farmers in Manipur.

Tamenglong orange is a type of mandarin that is a one-of-a-kind fruit crop grown mostly in Tamenglong district and accounts for more than half of the state's yearly production. It is particularly well-known for its well-balanced sweetness and acidity flavour.

Hathei chilli, on the other hand, is located in Sirarakhong hamlet in Ukhrul district and is one of the best types of chilies with a distinct flavour and colour. Hathei has a distinct appearance in addition to its distinct taste.

For more than a decade, Manipur has held the Orange Festival in December and the Sirarakhong Hathei chilli festival in August to market these goods.