Eight Traditional Himachal Products Secure GI Tags, Strengthening Heritage and Rural Economy

State of Himachal Pradesh has achieved milestone to preserve its cultural and agricultural heritage after total eight traditional products have received the Geographical Indication (GI) registration. With this induction, the total number of GI-tagged products GI tagged products reached to 17 in the state, it will providing legal protection to unique local products along with it will creating new opportunities for farmers, artisans, and rural entrepreneurs.

What Are the Eight Newly GI-Tagged Products?

The latest GI tag recognition cover the products which represent Himachal Pradesh’s rich agricultural, cultural, and artisanal traditions. This eight newly recognized products are,

1. Spiti Seabuckthorn (Chharma)
2. Salooni Safed Makka (White Maize)
3. Chamba Metal Art
4. Sirmauri Loiya (traditional woollen garment)
5. Kinnauri Topi
6. Sepuvadi of Mandi
7. Kinnauri Apple
8. Kinnauri Jewellery

These products have been originated from different regions of Himachal Pradesh and it reflect centuries-old traditional knowledge, craftsmanship, and farming practices.

What Is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is an intellectual property right which is granted to products that possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to the specific geographical region.

In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. It helps to protect the authentic regional products from unauthorized imitation and promoting their identity in the domestic and international markets.

GI tags are commonly awarded to the agricultural products, handicrafts, textiles, food items and manufactured goods that have a unique regional identity.

How Will the GI Tags Benefit Himachal Pradesh?

The newly granted GI registrations are also expected to generate the multiple benefits for the state’s economy and local communities.

• Protection Against Imitation
• Higher Market Value
• Support for Rural Livelihoods
• Export Promotion

Four More Products Under Consideration for GI Registration

The Himachal Pradesh government is also actively aiming the GI registration for four additional indigenous products such as,

• Bhot Jau (Barley from the Pangi region of Chamba)
• Chamba Chukh
• Plectranthus Honey (Bharmour region)
• Sirmaur Ginger

Authorities have been also directed to expedite the registration process to further expand the state’s portfolio of protected traditional products.