8 more Kashmir products secure GI registration

Eight more traditional products of Kashmir have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) certificates by GI Registry, Chennai, based on their sources of origin.

GI registration provides legal protection against counterfeit products, prevents unauthorised use, boosts exports and promotes economic prosperity for producers of goods associated with a specific geographical territory.

A spokesman from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, today stated that Kashmir Namda, Kashmir Gabba, Kashmir willow bat, Kashmir tweed, Crewel, Kashmir chain stitch, Shikara and Wagguv have secured GI registration. With this, he said, the total number of GI-registered crafts has reached 15.

Highlighting the benefits of the registration, the spokesman exuded confidence that these eight new products would provide much-needed boost to exports and would gain greater access in international markets, leading to increased demand.

“The registration, followed by GI labelling, will also help prevent unauthorised use, ensuring consumers get access to genuine products,” he added.

Referring to the stiff challenges faced by the department over three years, the spokesman highlighted the various steps taken for earning GI registration. “After filing of applications online, the department had to go through the onerous task of preliminary scrutiny and examination of the applications filed followed by issuance of show-cause notices and publication in GI Journal. Only after no objections were received, the GI registration was granted by Geographical Indication (GI) Registry, Chennai, in favour of the eight new products,” he explained.

The spokesman said the department would now shift focus to six more crafts for GI registration, which would go a long way in revival of certain lost crafts and also boost their saleability in niche global markets. These include copperware (Kandkari), silverware, houseboat, tapestry, Kashmir Tilla and Aari Stapple embroidery.

Identifying testing and QR labelling as a corollary to the GI registration of unique Kashmir products, the spokesman said the department has already submitted proposals for upgrade of its testing labs in IICT, CDI and Quality Control Division.