aga Mircha, also known as King Chilli or Bhut Jolokia, is celebrated worldwide for being one of the spiciest chillies, with a Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) ranging from 800,000 to over 1,000,000. This chilli is an integral part of Nagaland’s identity, cultivated extensively in the hilly terrains of Peren, Kohima, and Mon districts. Its fiery flavor and robust aroma make it a key ingredient in Naga cuisine, where it is used in chutneys, pickles, and other traditional dishes. Naga Mircha also holds medicinal properties, often used to stimulate digestion and relieve pain. Historically, it was even employed as a natural insect repellent, showcasing its versatility.

The journey of Naga Mircha toward receiving its GI tag began with an application filed on August 22, 2007, by the Department of Horticulture and Agriculture, Government of Nagaland. On December 2, 2008, the chilli officially received its GI recognition, making it the first product from Nagaland to earn this honor. This recognition has opened new markets for farmers, boosting export potential and creating opportunities for Nagaland to be acknowledged on the global spice map. The GI tag not only preserves the authenticity of Naga Mircha but also safeguards the livelihood of the farmers who have cultivated it for generations.