Jammu and Kashmir’s Handicrafts Flourish with Geographic Indication Tags

Jammu and Kashmir's Handicrafts Flourish with Geographic Indication Tags

VoM News Desk | November 12, 2023 | 01:49 PM IST | Jammu Kashmir | Follow on Google News

Jammu and Kashmir’s Handicrafts Flourish with Geographic Indication Tags

Jammu and Kashmir’s Handicrafts Flourish with Geographic Indication Tags

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has made significant strides in promoting and protecting its traditional handicrafts by issuing Geographic Indication (GI) tags to a substantial number of Pashmina shawls and carpets. This initiative has played a crucial role in safeguarding the authenticity and quality of these renowned crafts.

Widespread Issuance of GI Labels

According to the data provided by the news agency KNO, over 20,000 Pashmina shawls and around 9,700 carpets have been labeled with GI tags. These tags were granted in 2021 and 2022 for Pashmina shawls and carpets, respectively, as a strategy to combat counter-branding and preserve the heritage and uniqueness of these crafts.

Significance of GI Tagging

GI tagging recognizes products that originate from a specific geographical location and possess unique qualities or characteristics inherent to that region. This label not only enhances the value of the products but also safeguards traditional production methods, ensuring consumers receive genuine, high-quality items. The introduction of the GI tag has notably boosted the export of handicrafts, especially Pashmina shawls and carpets, from Jammu and Kashmir.

Impact on Handicraft Exports

Data indicates a substantial increase in handicraft exports over the past four years, totaling Rs 4,740 crore. In the financial year 2022-23 alone, handicrafts worth Rs 1116.37 crore were exported, showing a significant rise from Rs 563.13 crore in the previous year. In the first quarter of this year, exports amounted to Rs 208.21 crore. The government is currently formulating an export strategy with the goal of doubling exports in the next five years.

Future Prospects and Additional Crafts for GI Tagging

Jammu and Kashmir is the first Union Territory/State in India to issue QR-based labels for all its crafts, enhancing recognition and protection for these products and boosting the local economy. The administration is working on GI tagging 12 more crafts, including seven from Kashmir and five from Jammu. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote and protect the rich tradition of handicrafts in the region, with 10 crafts already registered under the GI tag and more in the pipeline.

VoM News Desk

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