The Department of Food Processing, Government of Punjab, has convened a meeting on June 19 at the DC office (Amritsar) to advance the process of obtaining a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the iconic Amritsari kulcha. A source of local pride and a cornerstone of Amritsar’s culinary heritage, the kulcha is widely celebrated as a signature dish of the holy city and a symbol of its history, hospitality and rich food culture.
According to a communication issued by the Special Secretary, Department of Food Processing, Amritsari kulcha is an integral part of Punjab’s culinary legacy. However, its widespread replication across the country without proper attribution has affected its authenticity, recognition and the interests of the original artisans. As a result, securing a GI tag for Amritsari kulcha has been identified as a priority by the department.
A GI tag is a legal certification granted under India’s Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. It recognises products that originate from a specific geographical region and possess unique qualities, characteristics or reputation linked to that area. Recognising the need to preserve the identity and heritage of Amritsari kulcha, the department has initiated the process to secure GI status for the product.
To facilitate the initiative, a coordination committee comprising representatives from the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST), the Department of Food Technology, Guru Nanak Dev University, the district administration, Amritsar, and the Department of Food Processing will be constituted.
The committee’s primary objective will be to facilitate the formation of Amritsari Kulcha Makers’ Association, which will serve as the eligible entity for filing the GI tag application. The district administration has designated the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) as the nodal officer to coordinate arrangements related to the initiative.
The meeting will be held on June 19, with officials from the departments concerned and prominent Amritsari kulcha makers expected to participate. The district administration has appealed to leading kulcha makers of Amritsar to attend the meeting and contribute to this significant effort aimed at preserving and promoting the city’s unique culinary legacy.
