Simlipal, Sept 2: Red Weaver ants consumed in the form of Chutney-known as ‘Kai Chutney’ is likely to get a Geographical Indications (GI) tag soon as the application seeking a GI tag for this dish has been listed under Application No. 725 on page no. 52 of the Geographical Indications Journal No. 178 of the Government of India.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Yashipur earlier had applied for the tag via OUAT.
The red weaver ants are indigenous to Mayurbhanj and are found in forests, including Simlipal. The tribal people use them to make chutneys and soups.
The chutney is believed to have medicinal properties as it is rich in protein, calcium, zinc, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper, fibre, and amino acids.
