Geographical Indications of Madhya Pradesh :

A geographical indication or GI is a sign or symbol used on products, which have a specific geographical origin & have qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. In order to function as a GI, a sign should identify a product as originating in a particular place. In India, Darjeeling tea became the first GI tagged product in 2004-05. Recently, Tirur betel leaf from Kerala has received the GI tag.

1. Chanderi Fabric :

Chanderi is a traditional ethnic fabric characterized by its lightweight, sheer texture and fine luxurious feel. Chanderi fabric is produced by weaving in silk and golden Zari in the traditional cotton yarn that results in the creation of the shimmering texture. The fabric borrowed its name from the small town Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh where traditional weavers practice the art of producing textured sarees in cotton and silk decorated with fine zari work.This fabric can be classified into three types – Chanderi silk cotton, pure silk and Chanderi cotton. Traditionally, Chanderi fabric was primarily used in weaving Sarees and Salwar Kameez material.

Since ancient times, Chanderi town is popularly known as one of the best handloom clusters in India where Chanderi fabric was woven using handspun cotton warps and wefts. But the evolution of the fabric began in the 1890’s when weavers in the town of Chanderi replaced hand spun yarns with mill mad yarns. But if epics are to be believed, Chanderi fabric is known to have its origin way back in the Vedic Period and was founded by Lord Krishna’s cousin – Shishupal.

Leather tanning is said to be the oldest human activities. Earlier the skins obtained from hunting could be used for clothing or making tents, but they became stiff at temperatures and rotted cause of heat, to prevent from this animal fat is rubbed to make it strong and flexible. Another process is smoking, which almost started like by an accident and became formaldehyde tanning. This is found in the vapors produced by burning green leaves and branches, after this, another method was found to stop the rotting of leather which was drying or dehydrating action of salt. Vegetable tanning was also known. There was an advancement in the processing technique during the 12th century. Oil tanning and finishing were carried to improvise on the malleability and appearance of the leather. The leather is a kind of material that is very durable and flexible. It is obtained by processing animal skin. The skin undergoes many processes before putting it into the use of making the leather products. There are many kinds of goods that are made of leather in India. Few of them are trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, handbags, wallets, purses, passport holders, cardholders, diary covers, belts, and caps. There are various kinds of leather available depending on the unique textures and rich colors. The pleasure of working with leather is in the longevity of the products that last beyond the years of fabrics.

2. Leather toys of Indore :

The toys are exported mostly as there is a huge demand. Initially, people were involved in just trading but gradually they got into the knowledge of how the toys were made and began the manufacturing unit of these leather toys. The manufacturing of these leather toys has been running successfully from years. The raw materials are obtained from Indore (one of the main supplies of leather).
Indore  toys are most noted and they made up of leather-coated sheets. Briefly, the structure of the toy is made roughly from the wires. The paper roll is stuffed and tied. A mixture of paper pulp is applied to give the shape of the animals. It is allowed to dry and coated with leather sheets.

Leather tanning is said to be the oldest human activities. Earlier the skins obtained from hunting could be used for clothing or making tents, but they became stiff at temperatures and rotted cause of heat, to prevent from this animal fat is rubbed to make it strong and flexible. Another process is smoking, which almost started like by an accident and became formaldehyde tanning. This is found in the vapors produced by burning green leaves and branches, after this, another method was found to stop the rotting of leather which was drying or dehydrating action of salt. Vegetable tanning was also known. There was an advancement in the processing technique during the 12th century. Oil tanning and finishing were carried to improvise on the malleability and appearance of the leather. The leather is a kind of material that is very durable and flexible. It is obtained by processing animal skin. The skin undergoes many processes before putting it into the use of making the leather products. There are many kinds of goods that are made of leather in India. Few of them are trunks, suitcases, vanity cases, handbags, wallets, purses, passport holders, cardholders, diary covers, belts, and caps. There are various kinds of leather available depending on the unique textures and rich colors. The pleasure of working with leather is in the longevity of the products that last beyond the years of fabrics.

3. Ratlami sev :

Ratlami sev is a popular fried and crisp snack made with gram flour,clove,pepper and other spices.This is a  speciality from the city of Ratlam(M.P).The addition of the special spice blend,makes this spicy and gives a unique taste.the spice blend and the thickness is different from other sev.
 Ingredients : Chick Peas Flour, Edible Vegetable Oil, Ajwain, Cumin, Black Pepper, Clove, Salt, Red Chilli, Turmeric, Cardamom, Dry Ginger Powder, Nutmeg & Bay Leaves.

4. Kadaknath :

Kadaknath or Kali Masi is an Indian breed of chicken originating from the Jhabua,Madhya Pradesh, where it is known as "Kali masi" ("fowl having black flesh"). There are three varieties within the breed, jet black, golden and pencilled. It has a lower fat content of 0.73 — 1.03% compared to 13 to 25% in most other chicken breeds. The meat from this breed has a geographical indication (GI Tag) tag. It was approved by Indian government on 30 July 2018. The breed is maintained and improved by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Jhabua.

Colour : The birds are completely grey-black with a gold plumage having greenish iridescence. Greyish black legs and toenails, greyish black beak and tongue, black comb and wattles, greyish white meat and bones and even dark organs. Colour completely depends upon weather conditions it may vary from greyish to complete black. The rooster weigh 2–2.5 kg and the hens from 1.5–2 kg. The hens lay cream-colored eggs with a slight pink tint, although they are poor setters and rarely hatch their own brood. Eggs weigh an average of 45 g. This breed is also found in Indonesia where it is known as Ayam Cemani.The colour of the egg is white.

Threat of extinction : Due to the relatively high consumption of the breed, its numbers have sharply declined. To save the breed from extinction, the state government started a Kadaknath poultry breeding program involving 500 families from below the poverty line who were to receive financial support and assistance.