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

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