Things To Buy From The Andaman And Nicobar Islands | For the first time, seven products from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have simultaneously received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, according to a recent announcement by officials. The products awarded GI tags are Nicobar Coconut, Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich (Virgin Coconut Oil), Andaman Karen Musley Rice, Hodi (an outrigger canoe), Nicobari Mat (Chatrai-hileuoi), Nicobari Hut (Chanvi Pati – Nyi hupul), and Padauk Wood Craft. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) facilitated this process and expressed gratitude to the island's administration for their support. While six out of the seven products can be bought as souvenirs, the seventh product is the Nicobari Hut, which are traditional houses found on the islands. Locally known as the 'chanvi-pati-nyi hupul,' the Nicobari huts are traditional, elevated circular houses built on stilts to protect against flooding, insects, and wild animals. They are constructed using locally available materials like bamboo, wood, and thatch. The circular shape and conical thatched roofs are designed to withstand strong cyclonic winds, common in the region, by reducing wind resistance. This design promotes natural ventilation, helping to keep the interior cool in the tropical climate.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are essentially due to that origin. Essentially, it's a form of intellectual property that protects products with a unique link to a particular place. These tags acknowledge the unique origin and quality of these products, which are closely linked to the specific geographical area of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Nicobari Mat, also known as Chatrai or Hileuoi, is a unique and culturally significant handwoven mat crafted by the Nicobari people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It stands out for its traditional craftsmanship, use of natural materials, and its role in Nicobari culture and daily life. These mats are handwoven using techniques that have been passed down through generations. They are made from sun-dried screw pine leaves (pandanus), which is a locally sourced and sustainable material. The mats serve multiple purposes, including sleeping, sitting, and celebrating during festivals and other important occasions, highlighting their versatility and cultural importance. They symbolise the Nicobari people's culture, representing hospitality, dignity, and their connection to the natural environment.
Padauk wood is known for its vibrant reddish-orange color, which deepens with age, and its durability and strength. The skilled artisans in the Andaman Islands are known for their intricate carvings and designs on Padauk wood furniture, which highlight the wood's natural beauty. They create a range of items, from furniture like chairs, tables, and beds to decorative pieces and even musical instruments. Padauk wood also holds cultural significance for the indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, who use it in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Coconut is one of the primary plants found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. In some areas, it even grows in natural forests. Coconuts from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly the Nicobari coconuts, are known for their high oil content, rich flavour, and unique taste. The islands' favourable climate and fertile soil contribute to the excellent quality of these coconuts. They hold significant cultural and economic value in the region, especially for the Nicobarese people, who serve them as a staple food.
Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich, or Virgin Coconut Oil from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a premium organic product recognised for its traditional extraction methods, health benefits, and geographical indication (GI) status. This oil is made from fresh coconut meat without any chemical processing, which helps preserve its natural purity and beneficial properties. The extraction process follows age-old methods passed down by the indigenous Nicobarese people, resulting in a pure, additive-free oil. Nicobari Tavi-i-Ngaich is renowned for its antioxidant properties and is believed to provide benefits for pain relief and skincare. Additionally, the traditional extraction methods promote sustainable practices among local producers.
Andaman Karen Musley Rice is a unique indigenous rice variety grown by the Karen community in the Andaman Islands. This rice is renowned for its distinct aroma and flavour, making it a highly sought-after variety. It has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the saline soils typical of the Andaman region. The Karen community has carefully preserved traditional farming methods passed down through generations for cultivating this rice. The cultivation of Musley rice is deeply connected to the cultural identity and heritage of the Karen community.
The Nicobari Hodi is a traditional outrigger canoe with a unique design, construction from local materials, and its cultural significance in fishing, transportation, and racing. The Hodi is more than just a boat; it symbolises Nicobarese heritage and their deep connection to the sea. Handcrafted using indigenous knowledge passed down through generations, the Hodi features an outrigger, which is a buoyant float attached to the main hull, providing stability. Typically built from locally available trees, its design can vary slightly from island to island within the Nicobar group. The Hodi serves multiple purposes: it is used for fishing, transportation between islands, and is the centerpiece of annual Hodi races, which are major cultural events. It plays a vital role in the Nicobarese community, connecting them to their maritime heritage and fostering a sense of brotherhood through these annual races.
Air: To reach the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, you can book a flight to the Veer Savarkar Airport, an International Airport is located in the capital town of Port Blair, the gateway to Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Water: Regular passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam and back. There are three to four sailings every month from Kolkata and Chennai to Port Blair and vice-versa.
The best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. The monsoon season, which lasts from May to September, brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, making it less favourable for tourism.
Before visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is crucial to obtain the necessary permits, especially if you are a foreign national. Most areas do not require permits for Indian citizens, but certain restricted areas like tribal reserves demand permits. You can obtain these permits through local authorities or online portals.
