Chandigarh: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday congratulated the farmers of Sirsa after Sirsa Kinnow received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. He said that it is the first fruit from Haryana to earn this prestigious recognition. He said the GI Tag has established Sirsa Kinnow’s identity at both the national and international levels and will help increase farmers’ income by enhancing the product’s market value.
The Chief Minister said this while interacting with mediapersons after chairing the District Public Relations and Grievance Committee meeting in Sirsa, where he also heard public grievance . He urged farmers to maintain the quality and production standards of Sirsa Kinnow so that the recognition earned through the GI Tag continues to grow. He congratulated the farming community on achieving this milestone.
Earlier, the Chief Minister honoured progressive farmers, officials and experts who played a key role in securing the GI Tag for Sirsa Kinnow. Those felicitated included progressive farmers Nikhil Mehta of Baragudha, Manoj Kumar of Ellenabad, Krishan Kumar of Dabwali, and HDO Seema Kamboj for their significant contributions.
District Horticulture Officer Deen Mohammad informed that Sirsa Kinnow has become Haryana’s first independently registered agricultural product to receive a GI Tag. Earlier, Basmati and Phulkari had received GI recognition jointly, but Sirsa Kinnow has now established a distinct identity as a unique agricultural produce of Haryana.
He added that in the absence of an independent GI Tag, Sirsa Kinnow was often sold along with kinnow from other states, preventing farmers from receiving the premium price their high-quality produce deserved. With the GI Tag, farmers are expected to get better market value, while the brand value and recognition of Sirsa Kinnow will also be significantly strengthened.
Government Working for the welfare of Youth- Chief Minister
Responding to another question, the Chief Minister said that the CET and NEET examinations in Haryana were conducted smoothly without any inconvenience, and adequate transportation facilities were provided to candidates. He said that the Opposition attempted to mislead and provoke the youth, whereas the government has been working sincerely for their welfare and empowerment. He said the Opposition should introspect on how young people were treated during its tenure. The Chief Minister added that Prime Minister, Narendra Modi’s vision is to empower and strengthen the youth of the country.
Deputy Commissioner, hantanu Sharma, Superintendent of Police, Deepak Saharan and other dignitaries also remained present on this occasion.
