8 traditional products of Himachal Pradesh have received GI tag, taking the total number of registered products to 17. These include products like Kinnauri cap, Kinnauri apple, and Chamba metal art. According to CM Sukhu, this will give a boost to the rural economy and artisans.
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [भारत]July 1 (ANI): In a major boost to the state’s rural economy and cultural heritage, eight traditional products of Himachal Pradesh with social, economic, cultural and agricultural importance have been officially registered as Geographical Indications (GI). With these new additions, the state has now acquired a total of 17 GI-registered traditional products through the Himachal Pradesh State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE).
These products got recognition
The newly recognized products are from different regions of the state: Spiti: Seabuckthorn (Chharma), Chamba: Saluni white maize and Chamba metal art, Sirmaur: Sirmauri loiya (traditional woolen gown), Kinnaur: Kinnauri cap, Kinnauri apple, and Kinnauri jewellery, Mandi: Sepuvadi (a traditional lentil-based dish).
Chief Minister congratulated, said- rural economy will be strong
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu congratulated the people of the state and described this development as a historic achievement. CM Sukhu said, “This recognition is a testament to the continuous efforts of the state government to preserve, protect and promote the traditional heritage of Himachal Pradesh over the last three and a half years.”
He emphasized that GI tags will protect the authenticity of these products, prevent unauthorized imitation and significantly increase their market value, thereby creating new livelihood opportunities and strengthening the rural economy.
The Chief Minister further said, “This milestone will open new avenues of economic growth, rural entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods for our indigenous communities, artisans, weavers and farmers.”
These 4 more products will get GI tag in future
Looking ahead, Chief Minister Sukhu revealed that the state government is actively pursuing GI registration for four additional indigenous products: Bhot barley (barley from Pangi area of Chamba), Chamba Chukh (a traditional chilli paste), Plectranthus honey (from Bharmour area of Chamba), Sirmaur ginger.
The Chief Minister has directed the concerned officials to strictly pursue the registration process for these items.
Benefits of GI tag
Sushil Kumar Singla, Secretary, Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change, said GI registration acts as an effective legal shield against misuse, as well as dramatically enhances the branding, marketability and export potential of Himachali crafts and produce.
These 9 products are already registered
Before this announcement, Himachal Pradesh had nine GI tags including the world famous Kullu shawls, Kangra tea, Chamba handkerchief, Kinnauri shawls, Kangra paintings, Himachali Kalajeera, Himachali Chulli (apricot) oil, Chamba slippers, and Lahauli woven socks and gloves.
The official briefing was also attended by Dr. Manmohan Singh (Director), Rupali Thakur (Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration), and Dr. Suresh Attri (Member Secretary, State Council for Science, Technology and Environment). (ANI)
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