New Delhi, July 3: Did you know? Himachal Pradesh has recently received eight new Geographical Indication (GI) tags, taking the state’s total number of GI-tagged products to 17. The achievement marks a significant milestone in preserving the state’s traditional products, promoting local craftsmanship, and enhancing market recognition for unique regional specialties.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is an intellectual property right that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical region where its quality, reputation, or characteristics are closely linked to its place of origin.
What Is a GI Tag?
A GI tag is granted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. It helps protect authentic regional products from imitation while ensuring that only authorised producers from the designated area can use the registered name.
GI recognition also boosts consumer confidence by guaranteeing the product’s authenticity and geographical origin.
Boost for Himachal Pradesh’s Traditional Products
With the addition of eight new GI registrations, Himachal Pradesh now has 17 officially recognised GI-tagged products, covering agricultural produce, handicrafts, handloom items, and traditional food products.
The recognition is expected to strengthen branding opportunities, increase exports, improve rural livelihoods, and encourage sustainable economic development across the state.
Benefits for Local Farmers and Artisans
GI certification provides legal protection against misuse of product names and helps farmers, artisans, and producers receive better prices in domestic and international markets.
Experts believe that GI recognition also encourages preservation of traditional knowledge, indigenous production techniques, and cultural heritage passed down through generations.
Supporting Rural Economy
State authorities have welcomed the new GI registrations, noting that they will help promote Himachal Pradesh’s unique identity while generating employment and tourism opportunities.
The recognition is also expected to enhance the global visibility of the state’s traditional products and attract greater interest from consumers seeking authentic regional goods.
Preserving India’s Rich Heritage
India is home to hundreds of GI-tagged products, ranging from agricultural produce and textiles to handicrafts and food items. These registrations play an important role in safeguarding the country’s diverse cultural and economic heritage while supporting local communities.
The addition of eight new GI tags further strengthens Himachal Pradesh’s contribution to India’s growing portfolio of protected regional products.
Source: Geographical Indications Registry, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
Original Report:
https://ipindia.gov.in/
https://dpiit.gov.in/
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