Chulli Oil, Himachali
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Agricultural Products |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | February 13, 2023 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 111,000 |
| Perforation | 14½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Mr. Suresh Kumar Ms. Nenu Gupta |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3857 Yvert et Tellier IN 3522 Colnect codes IN 2023.02.13-01b |
| Themes | Agriculture | Fruits and Berries |
Himachali Chulli Oil – A Nutritious Gift from the Himalayas
Himachali Chulli Oil has earned the status of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, reflecting its authenticity and strong link to the traditional practices of Himachal Pradesh. Extracted from the kernels of wild apricot (locally called Chulli), this oil is an invaluable part of the cultural and nutritional heritage of the Himalayan region.
Origin and Cultivation
The wild apricot trees grow abundantly across the districts of Shimla, Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, Sirmour, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. The fruit is carefully collected by local communities, and its kernels are crushed to extract the oil. For centuries, this process has been carried out in households, preserving its traditional essence.
Nutritional and Medicinal Value
Himachali Chulli Oil is highly regarded for being a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is not only consumed as a nutritious cooking oil but also used for its therapeutic and pharmaceutical properties. Locals have traditionally relied on this oil for:
- Maintaining heart health
- Supporting healthy skin and hair
- Alleviating joint pains and other ailments
Its purity and high nutritional profile make it a natural, healthy, and sustainable choice.
Cultural and Domestic Importance
In Himachal households, Chulli Oil is more than just a cooking medium – it is a symbol of self-reliance and local tradition. Nearly every family extracts oil from wild apricot kernels for domestic use, keeping alive the age-old Himalayan practices of utilizing natural resources with care and respect.
Global Recognition
With its GI status, Himachali Chulli Oil is not only safeguarded against imitation but also introduced to the global market as an authentic Himalayan product. Its unique properties, coupled with its cultural value, have made it a point of pride for the people of Himachal Pradesh.
A Tribute Through Philately
To celebrate this treasure of the Himalayas, the Department of Posts has issued a commemorative postage stamp on Himachali Chulli Oil. The stamp honors the region’s rich agricultural heritage and pays tribute to the traditional knowledge of the local communities who sustain this legacy.
First Day Cover
