India grants GI Tags to over 60 items

Published: 5th Apr, 2024

Context

Over 60 products from across India have been given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

The important products

Tripura:
- Pachra-Rignai, which is a traditional dress worn on special occasions
- Matabari Peda, a sweet preparation
Uttar Pradesh (Banaras)
- Banaras Thandai, a drink made by blending milk with a nutritious mix of nuts, seeds and spices
- The Banaras Tabla, Banaras Shehnai, Banaras Lal Bharwamirch and Banaras Lal Peda.
Assam:
- Six traditional crafts from Assam — Asharikandi terracotta craft, Pani Meteka craft, Sarthebari metal craft, Jaapi (bamboo headgear of rural Assam), Mishing handloom products, and the Bihu dhol.
- Others:
  - Bodo Dokhona, the traditional attire of Bodo women
  - Bodo Eri silk, referred to as the fabric of peace or ahimsa (non-violence), which comes from the silkworm Samia ricini that feeds mostly on the leaves of the castor plant (Ricinus communis), and cassava
  - Bodo Jwmgra (a traditional scarf)
  - Bodo Gamsa (traditional dress of Bodo men)
  - Bodo Thorkha (a musical instrument)
  - Bodo Sifung (a long flute)
Meghalaya:
- Meghalaya Garo Textile weaving (Garo dakmanda)
- Meghalaya Lyrnai Pottery
- Meghalaya Chubitchi (traditional drink)
- Lakadong turmeric

Fact Box: GI Tag

The Geographical Indication is awarded to products that have a specific geographical origin, and that have characteristics related to a particular location.
Till date, around 635 products in India have been given the GI tag.
The first GI tag in the country was given two decades ago to the famous Darjeeling tea.

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