Authoor Vetrilai
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| Authoor Vetrilai | |
|---|---|
| Geographical indication | |
| Description | Betel leaf variety cultivated in Tamil Nadu, India |
| Type | Betel leaf |
| Area | Authoor and nearby areas of Thoothukudi district |
| Country | India |
| Registered | 31 March 2023 |
| Official website | ipindia.gov.in |
Authoor Vetrilai is a traditional crop variety of Betel leaf cultivated in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.[1] It is mainly cultivated in Authoor, Rajapathi, Chokkapalakarai, Maranthalai, Vellakoil, Melaattur, Sernthapoomangalam, Vazhavallan, Korkai and Umarikadu block panchayaths of Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu.[2]
Under its Geographical Indication tag, it is referred to as "Authoor Vetrilai".[3]
Description
This variety of betel leaf comes in three distinct variants - Nattukodi, Pachaikodi, and Karpoori.[6] The book "The Travels of Marco Polo (The Venetian)" mentions the use of betel leaves in the city of Kael, which is located just 10 km from Authoor village.[7] Authoor and nearby areas in Thoothukudi district are famous for betel vine cultivation, covering 200 hectares.[1] The Thamirabarani river is the primary source of irrigation. Betel leaves play a significant role in various aspects of life, including food, medicine, social, and religious purposes. They are an essential item in social gatherings, weddings, and festivals.[7] The majority of people in Authoor and nearby areas depend on betel vine cultivation and allied sectors for their livelihood. The farmers of Authoor cultivate several varieties of betel leaves, including 'Chakkai', 'Maaththu', 'Raasi', and 'Sanna Ragam'. However, it's the 'Chakkai' and 'Maaththu' varieties that are in high demand and enjoy an excellent market in major cities across India, including Indore, Jaipur, Bhopal, Delhi, Mumbai, Agra, Bengaluru, Nellore, and Thiruvananthapuram.[4]