India is home to diverse cultures, where every region is known for its traditions, folklore and craftsmanship. These incredible art forms and products are not only specific to the identity of the region, but they also reflect skills and techniques passed down for generations. The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property protection that preserves these legacies, supports local communities and ensures that these crafts get the credit that they deserve. It retains the authenticity of these expressions in a rapidly globalised world.
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a certification for products whose distinctive qualities, reputation, or characteristics are intrinsically linked to a specific place of origin. Apart from being a genuine mark of authenticity and quality, a GI tag anchors a product’s identity to its region while protecting and promoting generational knowledge, cultural heritage, and regional diversity.
In India, GI tags are registered and protected under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. This framework prevents the illegal use of place names and product labels, preserves the integrity of authentic goods, and, in turn, supports economic growth for local producers.
Protects authenticity – In a market flooded with imitations, GI tags protect consumers from fake products. This helps preserve the reputation of the original product and prevents dilution of its unique identity.
Empowers artisans – For the skilled artisans, GI tags ensure that only products from the specified region, adhering to defined standards, can use the GI name. This helps them command fair prices and minimises exploitation.
Promotes economic benefits and cultural preservation – GI tags are used to stimulate small local economies by distinguishing their products, improving their market value. This encourages sustainable production, creates employment opportunities, and helps preserve knowledge and skills within communities, ensuring that the unique skills and techniques are passed down to the next generation.
Promoting export and tourism – Products with a GI tag often gain international recognition, leading to increased demand in global markets. This attracts tourists interested in experiencing the origin of these unique items.
As of the latest data, the total number of GI tags has crossed 650, and it is expected to reach 10,000 by 2030. This significant and growing number reflects the government’s increasing focus on protecting traditional knowledge and products. These products are broadly categorised into five different divisions:
Agricultural products – These include famous spices, fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Foodstuffs – Confectionery, sweets, and other culinary delights.
Wine and Spirit Drinks – Though a smaller category, it includes unique regional beverages.
Manufactured Goods – Other specific industrial products with a geographical link.
Handicrafts – This is where India truly shines, encompassing a vast array of textiles, pottery, metalwork, and much more.
An analysis of the distribution of these tags by category reveals a clear emphasis on the craft sector. The following table provides a breakdown of GI tags, illustrating the prominence of handicrafts and agricultural goods, respectively.
Andhra Pradesh – Tirupati Laddu, Sambhar Mangoes
Assam – Assam Tea, Muga Silk
Gujarat – Patola Saree, Kutch Embroidery
Karnataka – Coorge Coffee, Mysore Pak
Kerala – Nendran Banana, Kalamkari Paintings
Madhya Pradesh – Chanderi Sarees, Khajuraho Temples
Maharashtra – Paithani Sarees, Alphonso Mango
Odisha – Odisha Applique Work, Pattachitra Paintings
Punjab – Basmati Rice, Amritsari Kulcha
Rajasthan – Kota Doria, Blue Pottery
Tamid Nadu – Kanchipuram Sarees, Tirunelveli Halwa
Uttar Pradesh – Varanasi Silk Sarees, Lucknow Chikan Embroidery
West Bengal – Darjeeling Tea, Santiniketan Leather
Himachal Pradesh – Kullu Shawl, Chamba Rumal
Source: Shutterstock
One of India’s most renowned GI-tagged crafts, Rajasthan’s Blue Pottery, received its GI status in 2008. This traditional art form, while inspired by Persian ceramics, showcases its distinctive designs and motifs. Blue Pottery celebrates vibrant decorations inspired by animals, birds, and floral motifs, while subtle Persian geometric elements enrich its visual identity. Together, these influences make each piece a distinctive blend of cultural heritage and local craftsmanship.
Kashmiri carpets stand out for their remarkable craftsmanship, intricate designs, and exceptional quality, embodying centuries of skill passed down through master artisans. Known for their rich artistic motifs and fine details, these carpets often carry subtle narratives reflecting the stories of the skilled weavers. Originating in Kashmir, these hand-knotted carpets earned the prestigious GI tag in 2016, a recognition that celebrates their exceptional heritage and craftsmanship.
Cheriyal paintings, a unique handicraft from Telangana, are a stylized form of Nakashi art, deeply rooted in the region’s cultural heritage. These paintings follow a narrative style similar to a film roll or comic strip, depicting shorter stories from the Puranas and epics, often tied to Indian mythology. Recognized for their distinctive storytelling approach, Cheriyal paintings earned their place on the Handicraft GI tag list in 2010.
In 2013, the government recognised this traditional Indian craft as the geographical symbol of Chhattisgarh, celebrating its unique technique. Linked to the ancient Harappa and Mohenjo-daro civilisations, artisans create each piece through 27 intricate steps—entirely by hand and without using moulds. This meticulous process sets it apart from Dhokra crafts found in other parts of the world.
Channapatna toys bring a modern touch to home decor with their bright colors and intricate wooden carvings. They rooted the design philosophy in simplicity and utility, with clean lines and rounded edges that make them safe for children. They also make attractive decorative accents, are eco-friendly, and non-toxic. The GI tag supports the livelihoods of the artisans in Channapatna, ensuring the continuation of this unique toy-making tradition.
Renowned for its gold leaf and gem work, depicting deities with vibrant colours, Thanjavur paintings are a classical South Indian art form originating in the town of Thanjavur (Tanjore). They characterised these paintings by their iconic composition, glittering gold foils, and vibrant jewel adornments.
GI tags are custodians of India’s rich heritage. It empowers artisans, establishes sustainable practices, and ensures that the stories woven into every thread, carved into every wood, and painted onto every canvas continue to inspire and thrive for generations to come. By supporting GI-tagged products, you not only acquire a piece of exquisite craftsmanship but also contribute to the preservation of India’s invaluable cultural legacy.
Content Writing : Sukanya Bhattacharjee
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