Eight more Kashmiri crafts get GI tag

IANS April 4, 2025 167 views

The Kashmiri handicrafts department has achieved a significant milestone by securing GI tags for eight traditional crafts, enhancing their global marketability. This registration provides legal protection against counterfeiting and supports local artisans in accessing international markets. The move is expected to boost exports and economic prospects for Kashmiri craftspeople. The department plans to pursue GI registration for six additional crafts, continuing their efforts to preserve and promote traditional Kashmiri craftsmanship.

"GI registration provides legal protection against counterfeit products" - Handicrafts Department Spokesman
Srinagar, April 4: In a landmark achievement for the craftsmanship of Kashmiri artisans, 8 more traditional products have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) certificates by GI Registry, Chennai, based on their sources of origin.

Key Points

1

8 Kashmir crafts secured prestigious GI registration

2

Includes Namda, Gabba, Willow Bat and Chain Stitch

3

Total GI registered crafts now reach 15

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Department targets 6 more craft registrations

A spokesman of handicrafts and handloom department said on Thursday: "GI registration provides legal protection against counterfeit products, prevents unauthorized use, boosts exports, and promotes economic prosperity for producers of goods associated with a specific geographical territory.

“Kashmir Namda, Kashmir Gabba, Kashmir Willow Bat, Kashmir Tweed, Crewel, Kashmir Chain Stitch, Shikara and Wagguv have secured GI registration. With this, the total number of GI registered crafts has reached 15, with 07 crafts having already been granted GI registration”.

Highlighting the benefits of the registration, the spokesperson exuded confidence that these 8 new products will provide much needed boost to exports and gain greater access in international markets, leading to increased demand.

“The registration, followed by GI labelling, will also help prevent unauthorised use, ensuring consumers get access to genuine products”, he added.

Referring to the stiff challenges faced by the department over a period of three years, the spokesman highlighted various steps taken for earning GI registration.

“After filing of applications online, the department had to go through the onerous task of preliminary scrutiny and examination of the applications filed, followed by issuance of show-cause notices and publication in GI Journal. Only after no objections were received, the GI registration was granted by Geographical Indication (GI) Registry Chennai, in favour of the 8 new products," he explained.

The spokesperson further stated that the department shall now shift focus to 6 more crafts for GI registration, which shall go a long way in revival of certain lost crafts and also boost their saleability in niche global markets.

These include Copperware (Kandkari), Silverware, Houseboat, Tapestry, Kashmir Tilla and Aari Staple Embroidery.

Identifying testing and QR labelling as a corollary to the GI registration of unique Kashmir products, the spokesman said the department has already submitted proposals for upgradation of its testing labs in IICT, CDI and Quality Control Division.

“In view of the increased demand for GI testing and labelling, the department shall upgrade its testing labs by acquiring state-of-the-art equipment like OFDA (Optical Fibre Diameter Analyzer), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) and high-resolution Digital Microscopes, which shall ensure genuineness of the products tested and weeding out sale of machine-made counterfeit products, which are sold in the garb of hand-made products," he added.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
This is fantastic news! 🎉 GI tags will help preserve our cultural heritage while giving artisans the recognition they deserve. The willow bats especially have such a rich history in Kashmir.
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Priya M.
As someone who collects traditional crafts, I'm thrilled about this. The chain stitch embroidery is absolutely breathtaking - now we'll be able to identify authentic pieces more easily.
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Amit S.
While I appreciate the effort, I hope the government ensures these benefits actually reach the artisans and not just middlemen. The implementation will be key to making this successful.
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Sneha R.
The Shikara getting a GI tag is so poetic! These houseboats are such an iconic part of Kashmir's identity. Can't wait to see how this boosts tourism too.
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Vikram J.
Interesting to see the tech angle with QR labeling and testing equipment. Combating counterfeit products with science while preserving traditional methods - smart approach!
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Neha P.
My grandmother used to make beautiful crewel work. This recognition warms my heart 💖 Maybe now more young people will take up these crafts as viable careers.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Kashmir Crafts Geographical Indication Handicrafts GI Registry Kashmiri Artisans
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