Warangal Chapata Chili Receives GI Tag, Benefiting Over 20,000 Farmers
Hyderabad, April 2, 2025: The Warangal Chapata chili variety has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, making it the first horticultural product from Telangana to receive this recognition and the 18th overall GI-tagged product from the state. The GI certificate was issued by the Government of India on March 28, 2025.
The GI registration process was initiated in 2022 by Janna Reddy Venkat Reddy Horticultural Research Station in Malayala village, Mahabubabad district, in collaboration with Thimmampet Chilli Farmer Producer Company Limited and Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University. They applied for GI tag number 984 for this unique chili variety.
Horticultural University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Danda Raji Reddy announced the achievement, stating that approximately 20,574 farmers will benefit from this GI recognition. Warangal Chapata chili, popularly known as “Tomato Chili” due to its distinctive tomato-like shape, is cultivated on 6,738 acres across Warangal, Hanumakonda, Mulugu, and Bhupalpally districts, yielding an annual production of about 10,951 tonnes.
The chili comes in three variants—single patti, double patti, and podalu. With the GI tag in place, farmers can now market their produce at a premium, with prices expected to range between Rs. 300 and Rs. 500 per kg.
The GI registration process was facilitated by GI Registrar Shubhajit Saha and scientist Dr. Bhaskar, who played key roles in securing the approval. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to obtain GI tags for other Telangana products, including Balanagar Sitaphal (custard apple) and Armur turmeric, as confirmed by Dr. Raji Reddy.
The Warangal Chapata chili is known for its unique flavor, vibrant red color, and moderate spice level, making it a preferred choice for culinary applications. The recognition of this variety through GI registration will not only boost local farmers’ incomes but also enhance the reputation of Telangana’s agricultural produce on national and international markets.
The process of obtaining a GI tag involves rigorous documentation and verification to establish the product’s unique identity and historical significance. The achievement is expected to open new market avenues, including exports, thus improving the economic prospects of farmers involved in chili cultivation. Telangana’s horticulture sector continues to gain prominence with such recognitions, further strengthening the state’s position in India’s agricultural landscape.
