Kamrul Hasan: Recognized for its long-standing heritage, distinctive taste, and reputation, the famous "Hazari Gur" of Manikganj has finally been registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.

With this recognition by the government, this well-known traditional product of Manikganj has been added to the country`s list of heritage food items. The achievement is not only a matter of pride for local producers but is also expected to open up new economic opportunities.

According to the registration certificate issued by the Geographical Indication Unit of the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Ministry of Industries, "Manikganj`s Hazari Gur" has officially been registered as a GI product. The certificate, bearing registration number GI-62, states that the registration has been completed in the name of the Deputy Commissioner of Manikganj.

Locally, much discussion has centered on the initiative, sincerity, and determined efforts of Ms. Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, Member of Parliament for Manikganj-3 and Adviser to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, in achieving this significant milestone.

People from various walks of life have highly appreciated her role in coordinating with the relevant authorities and advancing the necessary procedures to secure national recognition for this traditional product of the district.

According to experts, a GI certification is not merely a formal recognition; rather, it serves as an internationally accepted identity of a region`s heritage, culture, and production techniques.

As a result, it will help prevent lower-quality products from other regions from being marketed under the name "Manikganj`s Hazari Gur," thereby safeguarding the interests of genuine producers. At the same time, the product`s acceptability and market value are expected to increase both in domestic and international markets.

Local traders and producers believe that this recognition will enhance the brand value of Hazari Gur, ensure fair prices for producers, and positively impact the rural economy. In addition, Manikganj`s rich food heritage will gain renewed recognition at home and abroad.

Members of the district`s conscious community observe that, as part of the government`s initiatives to preserve local heritage and geographical diversity, distinctive products from different regions of the country are being brought under the GI recognition framework. In this context, the GI recognition of Manikganj`s Hazari Gur undoubtedly marks a new chapter of pride for the people of the district.

The people of Manikganj hope that relevant authorities will undertake more effective initiatives to highlight the district`s other promising traditions and resources at the national level. They believe that through continued and coordinated efforts, the scope of Manikganj`s development and potential will expand even further.

Therefore, this GI certification represents far more than the recognition of a single product; it has secured a place in history as an official acknowledgment of Manikganj`s heritage, identity, and immense potential.