Source : Indiamart
History and Background
Memong Narang (Citrus Indica) is an endangered species grown and cultivated exclusively in Meghalaya. Nokrek National Park in the West Garo Hills is home to this fruit, also called Wild Orange. For the Garo people, this fruit has a tremendous religious significance. During their last rites, the dead are covered in fruits to keep off ghosts of the dead. It is often sold for Rs 10 per piece and its price varies according to the size of the fruit.
North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Limited submitted the GI application for this commodity in 2011. Memong Narang was awarded the GI Tag in 2015. After the Khasi Mandarin, this is the second Meghalayan product to gain the GI designation.
Features
- Small in size
- Fruit is neither edible nor juicy
- Has a pleasant smell
- When completely mature, the fruit’s surface is smooth and rich orange to almost scarlet in colour
Cultivation
In the locations around Garo Hills, the shade-loving tree is typically found growing in cool places. In November, the fruits are plucked straight from the trees because they do not drop to the ground even when ripe.
Uses
- The majority of disorders treated with fruits include kidney stones, viral infections, and smallpox.
- Possess medicinal properties that treat gastrointestinal issues as well as jaundice
- Highly rich in folic acid, fiber and Vitamin C
- Used as a remedy for poisoning, the common cold, and other ailments
Future
Destruction of habitats because of slash and burn cultivation is a major threat to this fruit. Extremely low genetic diversity and destruction of its natural habitat pose a serious threat to it even in the sanctuary. The cultivation of the orange is done on a very small scale and is not highly marketed. The quality of Memong Narang will be monitored by an internal watchdog mechanism to maintain the original physical and chemical characteristics as per GI registration.
References
https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/gi-tag-for-citrus-fruit/cid/1530418
https://themeghalayan.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-two-of-meghalayas-gi-tagged-plants/
