25 products from the northeast have been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tags, highlighting the area’s rich cultural and traditional heritage. This recognition came as part of a record-setting day in March 2024, when the patent office granted GI tags to 62 items in a single day.
Assam emerged as the frontrunner, securing GI tags for 19 products. Meghalaya and Tripura followed, with 4 and 2 products respectively. This achievement cements the Northeast’s position as a region of cultural and artisanal significance.
Following Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra each saw 16 of their products receive GI recognition, with Gujarat earning 5 tags.
Earlier on June 2, the GI tag was awarded to an assortment of traditional culinary delights and handicrafts, celebrating the cultural legacy of the Bodo people in Assam. The honored items included Aronai, Maibra Jou Bidwi, Jou Gwran, Jou Gishi, Narzi, Napham, Ondla, and Gwkha-Gwkhwi, each representing the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the indigenous Bodo community.
The recognition of these products with GI tags underscores the importance of protecting unique items linked to specific geographical locations, thus promoting regional specialties and preserving traditional knowledge.
In a related development, the Tripura government requested a GI tag for its cane craft in May. This move aims to protect and preserve the state’s traditional craftsmanship, which has evolved into a well-organized industry. Tripura is home to 21 out of the 130 bamboo species found in India, and its artisans produce a wide range of handicrafts from bamboo and cane, including chairs, tables, mats, hats, bags, hand fans, and containers.
