The Department of Food Processing, Government of Punjab, has convened an important meeting on June 19 at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, 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 has long been celebrated as a signature dish of the holy city—an edible symbol of its history, hospitality and food culture.
According to a communication issued by the Special Secretary, Department of Food Processing, the Amritsari Kulcha is an integral part of Punjab’s rich culinary heritage. However, its widespread replication across the country without proper attribution has adversely affected its authenticity, recognition and the interests of the original artisans. Therefore, securing a GI Tag for Amritsari Kulcha has been identified as a priority.
A GI Tag is a legal certification granted under India’s Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. It recognises products originating from a specific geographical region and possessing unique qualities or characteristics associated with that region.
Recognising the importance of preserving the identity and heritage of Amritsari Kulcha, the department has initiated the process of obtaining a GI Tag for the product.
To facilitate this objective, a Coordination Committee comprising representatives of the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST), the Department of Food Technology at 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 an 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 for coordinating arrangements related to the initiative.
The meeting will be held on June 19, with officials from the concerned departments 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 initiative aimed at preserving and promoting the city’s culinary legacy.
