Ranchi: Jharkhand has received a major boost in promoting its traditional crafts, textiles and food products, with 11 more items from the state being granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. With the latest additions, the total number of GI-tagged products from Jharkhand has risen to 12.
The recognition is expected to enhance the national and global visibility of the state’s rich tribal heritage, indigenous craftsmanship and traditional knowledge while creating new economic opportunities for artisans, weavers and farmers.
The newly GI-tagged products include Kuchai silk saree and fabrics, Bhagaiya saree and fabrics, Dumka chadars, Panchi Parhan–Panchi saree and fabrics, Jharkhand Tussar silk saree and fabrics, Jharkhand Dokra craft, Jharkhand tribal jewellery, bamboo craft, Koderma (Jhumri Tilaiya) Kesariya Kalakand, Jharkhand Benu and Jadopatia painting.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren described the achievement as a proud moment for the state, saying it reflects the dedication, skill and centuries-old traditions preserved by artisans, weavers, farmers and tribal communities. He pointed out that Jharkhand had only one GI-tagged product in 2019, while the number has now increased to 12.
According to the Chief Minister, GI recognition will provide legal protection to these products, strengthen their identity in domestic and international markets, and help improve the livelihoods of local communities by increasing their market value.
He also said the state government is pursuing GI recognition for several other traditional products, including the mandar drum, Paithkar painting, Nimucha shawl, Deoghar peda, Kusumi lac, lac bangles, sal seeds, mahua flowers, karanj seeds, ragi, rugra and dhuska.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag certifies that a product originates from a specific geographical region and possesses qualities or characteristics linked to that place. It provides legal protection against imitation, helps preserve authenticity and gives products a distinct identity in the marketplace.
Experts believe the latest GI recognitions will enable Jharkhand’s artisans, craftsmen, weavers and farmers to secure better prices, expand their market reach and explore export opportunities.
The state government said the initiative will contribute to strengthening the rural economy while preserving the state’s traditional crafts and cultural heritage. It also acknowledged the role played by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) in facilitating the GI registration process.
In India, GI tags are granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Each registration remains valid for 10 years and can be renewed thereafter.
With inputs from IANS