Boat Labeling Request for Shikara, Kashmir Willow Sports Equipment Set in Sights | Hindustan Times
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As of mid-2025, the geographical indication (GI) registration process for five additional crafts from Kashmir Division, including Kashmir Namda and Gabba, Wagguv, Shikara, and Kashmir Willow bat, is still underway. These crafts, which are unique to the Kashmir region, are reported to be in the pipeline for their GI registration [2][3].
The significance of GI tagging for these crafts lies in legally recognising their unique qualities, reputation, and cultural heritage. GI certification offers several key benefits:
- Protects authenticity by preventing unauthorised use or counterfeiting of these traditional crafts by producers outside the region [1].
- Enhances economic value by enabling artisans and producers to leverage the GI status for premium pricing and market access [1][5].
- Preserves traditional knowledge and local cultural heritage, strengthening regional identity and artisan livelihoods [1][4].
- Facilitates global recognition and international market penetration with greater credibility [1].
- The certification legally binds the use of the name and production methods to a specific geographical area, safeguarding both producers and consumers [5].
The government has been pushing for increased production and sale of these seven GI-tagged Kashmir handicrafts, which include the aforementioned five and seven others: Kani Shawl, Pashmina, Sozni, Paper-Machie, Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, and Hand Knotted Carpets [6]. However, it remains unclear whether the GI tagging for these crafts has led to increased sales or production beyond their initial levels.
The government has stated that geographical indication tagging has acquired a greater significance due to the focus on Vocal for Local [7]. Yet, they have not shared any data on the economic impact of the GI tagging for the seven handicrafts on the local Kashmiri economy.
Discussions were also held regarding the GI submission of three more products of the Valley: copperware, willow wicker, and chain stitch crafts of the Valley, which are already under consideration for GI registration [8]. The government has not provided specific details on the timeline or status of these submissions.
The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) stated that the Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir Tariq Ahmad Zargar held discussions with Intellectual Property India (IPI) to speed up the GI registration process for these five crafts [9]. The dossier for registration of these crafts has already been submitted to Intellectual Property India, Chennai [10].
In summary, while these additional five Kashmir crafts are in the process of securing GI registration, the anticipated GI tagging will formally protect them as unique, region-specific artesian products—boosting the cultural legacy and improving economic opportunities for the local artisan communities [1][2][5]. The government's push for increased production and sale, coupled with the focus on Vocal for Local, suggests a commitment to preserving and promoting these traditional crafts. However, more clarity is needed on the economic impact and timeline for the GI registration of these crafts and the three more products under consideration.
References: 1. World Intellectual Property Organisation 2. The Indian Express 3. The Hindu 4. The Economic Times 5. Livemint 6. Greater Kashmir 7. The Indian Express 8. The Hindu 9. The Indian Express 10. The Hindu
- The Geographical Indication (GI) registration, currently underway for five additional Kashmir crafts, is anticipated to formally protect them as unique, region-specific artisanal products, enhancing their economic value by deterring unauthorized use and offering premium market access.
- Discussions for the GI submission of three more Valley products, such as copperware, willow wicker, and chain stitch crafts, are ongoing, potentially bringing more Kashmiri artisanal products under protection, preserving traditional knowledge, and promoting local cultural heritage.
