Goa's Beloved Dessert Bebinca to be Immortalized on Postal Cover
Two years after achieving the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, Goa's traditional layered dessert bebinca is set to receive a special philatelic honor. The Goa postal division will release a commemorative cover dedicated to this iconic sweet during the GOAPEX 2025 philatelic exhibition.
The official unveiling ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 28, at the Institute Menezes Braganza Hall in Panaji. This tribute aims to celebrate Goa's rich culinary heritage and promote wider recognition of its unique cultural products.
Significance of the GI Tag for Local Producers
A member of the Goa philatelic and numismatics society emphasized the importance of geographical indicators, stating that they play a vital role in highlighting exclusive regional materials. "This recognition ensures that farmers and product producers receive their due credit and can command better prices for their produce," the representative explained.
The bebinca received its official GI certification in August 2023, marking a significant milestone for Goan culinary traditions. Deepak Parab, nodal officer at the patent facilitation centre of the state council for science and technology, highlighted the economic benefits. "Many people export bebinca, and with the GI tag, the all-Goa bakers confectioners association can demand a premium price for this unique Goan product," Parab stated.
GOAPEX 2025 Exhibition Details and Distinguished Guests
The inauguration ceremony will be presided over by chief guest Shishir Dhamija (IRS), chief commissioner of income tax in Panaji. The event will feature Jnanpith awardee Damodar Mauzo as the guest of honor, adding literary prestige to the occasion.
Amitabh Singh, chief postmaster general of the Maharashtra and Goa circle, will also be present for the significant event, underscoring the importance of this philatelic tribute to Goan culture.
The program includes multiple philatelic releases beyond the bebinca cover. Attendees will witness the unveiling of a special cancellation on the GOAPEX 2025 logo, permanent pictorial cancellations, and picture postcards featuring Mussol Khel and the façade of Church of Our Lady of Health in Sancoale.
Additionally, a comprehensive picture postcard pack titled "Philately Meets Identity: Goa's 10 GIs" will be released, showcasing the diverse range of products from Goa that have earned geographical indication status.
This philatelic celebration represents a significant step in preserving and promoting Goa's gastronomic legacy while providing economic benefits to local producers through enhanced recognition and premium pricing opportunities.
