Eight more traditional products of Himachal get GI tag
Shimla, July 1
Eight more traditional products of social, economic, cultural and agricultural significance of Himachal Pradesh have been registered as geographical indication, it was announced on Wednesday.
The registered GIs are seabuckthorn of the Spiti Valley, Salooni safed makka, Chamba metal art, Sirmauri loiya, sepuvadi of Mandi and Kinnauri topi, apple and jewellery, all of Kinnaur district.
With this, the state has secured 17 traditional products with the geographical indication registration through Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE).
These products represent the rich heritage, traditional knowledge, craftsmanship and agricultural excellence of different regions of the state and reflect the unique identity, an official statement said.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has congratulated the people of the state for the achievement of registration of these traditional products under GIs.
He said this achievement is a testimony to the sustained efforts of the state government to preserve, protect and promote the state's traditional heritage.
He added that this recognition would safeguard the authenticity of these products and ensure their market value, besides creating new livelihood opportunities and strengthening the rural economy.
"This recognition will help to preserve our invaluable cultural heritage while opening new avenues for economic growth, rural entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood. I congratulate the people of the state on this remarkable accomplishment," the Chief Minister said.
He added that the state government is actively pursuing geographical indication registration for four additional indigenous products -- Bhot Jau (barley from the Pangi region of Chamba), Chamba chukh, Plectranthus honey from the Bharmour region of Chamba and Sirmaur ginger.
He said the recognition would strengthen the livelihoods of indigenous communities, artisans, weavers, farmers and traditional producers by creating greater opportunities for value addition, rural entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.
Himachal Pradesh (Science Technology) Secretary, Sushil Kumar Singla, said the GI registration serves as an effective instrument for protecting these products from unauthorised imitation and misuse while significantly enhancing their branding, marketability and export potential.
Earlier, nine products of Himachal -- Kullu shawl, Kangra tea, Chamba rumal, Kinnauri shawl, Kangra painting, Himachali kalazeera, Himachali chulli oil, Chamba chappal, Lahauli knitted socks and gloves -- have received the geographical indication tag.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great move for preserving our heritage! I've tasted Salooni safed makka and it's truly unique. Hope this GI tag stops the fake imitations we see in Delhi markets. Just wish the process was faster - four more products are pending? Government should speed up the approvals. 🏔️🌽
Interesting development! I visited Himachal last year and loved the Kinnauri shawls. GI tags definitely help in maintaining quality and authenticity. But I wonder how effective the enforcement will be in rural areas. Still, proud of India's efforts to protect traditional knowledge.
Seabuckthorn from Spiti! That's a superfood! 💚 I remember reading about its health benefits. This GI recognition will give it international value and help Spiti farmers. But the real challenge is marketing - many such products remain unknown despite GI tags. The state needs to create a strong export strategy.
Only 17 products from Himachal have GI tags? States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have hundreds. The government needs to be more proactive in identifying and registering our traditional products. Kullu shawl and Kangra tea are iconic but there are dozens more waiting. Let's speed this up, CM ji! 🚀
Fantastic news! I bought a Chamba rumal during
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