The first product in India to bag Geographical Indication:

Correct option is C

✔️ (c) Darjeeling tea: Darjeeling tea became the first product in India to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
· Registered in 2004, this iconic tea is known for its unique aroma, flavor, and quality, which is attributed to its specific geographic origin in the Darjeeling hills of West Bengal.
· This GI tag ensures intellectual property protection and brand value in domestic and international markets.
❌ (a) Malabar pepper: Though Malabar pepper is GI-tagged, it was not the first in India.
❌ (b) Allepy turmeric: Also holds a GI tag, but was granted much later.
❌ (d) Palakadan Matta: This rice variety from Kerala has GI status, but it is not the earliest recipient.