Meghalaya Weaves Its Way to Global Fame with GI Tag for Ryndia & Khasi Handloom

The GI tag for Ryndia silk and Khasi handloom marks a significant achievement in preserving Meghalaya’s rich textile heritage. It ensures both national and international recognition, economic upliftment for local artisans, and cultural pride for the indigenous communities.

Shivam Last updated on April 12th, 2025 10:28 am

The Government of India has officially granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to two traditional textile products from Meghalaya — Ryndia silk and Khasi handloom. This recognition not only boosts the cultural identity of the region but also provides legal protection and improved marketability to its indigenous crafts.

Key Highlights

Recognized By

Geographical Indications Registry, Intellectual Property Office of India

New GI Tag Holders

Ryndia Silk
Khasi Handloom Products

Ryndia Silk

Hand-spun, naturally dyed, organically produced
Ethically sourced and handwoven
Associated with the Umden-Diwon region, recognized as Meghalaya’s first Eri Silk Village in 2021

Khasi Handloom

Traditional textile art from the Khasi community
Known for unique weaves and natural dyes

Organizations Involved

Meghalaya Department of Textiles (lead agency)
NABARD – strategic support
Dr. Rajnikanth – technical guidance
Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Association – joint application partner

Milestone Timeline

Feb 12, 2021 – Umden-Diwon recognized as Eri Silk Village
Nov 20, 2024 – Final Consultative GI Group meeting in Kolkata
April 7, 2025 – GI Tag officially granted

Delegation Led By

Principal Secretary Frederick Roy Kharkongor
Included artisans, producers, and officials from the textiles department

Why It Matters

Boosts local economy by giving legal rights and market access to weavers
Preserves traditional knowledge and craftsmanship
Increases global recognition of Meghalaya’s cultural textiles
Protects the uniqueness of Ryndia and Khasi weaves from imitation

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Meghalaya Weaves Its Way to Global Fame with GI Tag for Ryndia & Khasi Handloom
Granted By	Geographical Indications Registry, Intellectual Property Office of India
Products Recognized	1. Ryndia Silk 2. Khasi Handloom
Ryndia Silk Features	– Hand-spun – Naturally dyed – Organically produced – Ethically sourced
Linked Region	Umden-Diwon (Eri Silk Village, recognized on Feb 12, 2021)
Khasi Handloom Features	– Traditional Khasi textile art – Unique weaves – Natural dyes
Key Organizations	– Meghalaya Dept. of Textiles (Lead) – NABARD (Support) – Dr. Rajnikanth (Technical Guide) – Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Association
Benefits of GI Tag	– Boosts local economy & artisan income – Preserves indigenous heritage – Prevents imitation – Enhances global visibility