Hyderabad: Chapata Chilli of Telangana’s Warangal is famous across the state. It is also known as ‘Tomato Chilli’ and has got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the Union government. This product is the first horticultural produce of the state to receive a GI tag. The cultivation of Chapata Chilli takes place in several districts of the state, such as Warangal, Hanamkonda, Mulugu, and Jayashankar Bhupalpally, covering around 6,700 acres. Farmers produce approximately 10,951 metric tonnes of this chilli every year, and the GI tag has added another feather to the state’s horticulture cap. This tag will benefit more than 20,500 farmers in these regions.
Dr.Raji Reddy, Vice Chancellor of Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University (SKLTGHU), stated that this recognition would encourage more horticultural products from Telangana to apply for GI registration. The university is also working on GI registration for Balanagar custard apple and armur turmeric.
Chapata Chilli has gained name and fame amid its tomato-like shape. The deep, bright colour always entices customers. After getting the prestigious GI tag, farmers are now able to sell their produce at a higher price—from Rs 300 per kg to Rs 450-500 per kg. The market value of the product boosts due to its branding and packaging. It seems farmers of the entire region are likely to earn a hefty amount of money after growing Chapata Chilli.
This recognition has provided a new recognition to the state’s horticulture sector, increasing Telangana’s recognition as a quality producer of horticultural crops.
