Assam’s Iconic Jewellery and Traditional Crafts Receive GI Tag Recognition

Assam’s Iconic Jewellery and Traditional Crafts Secure Prestigious GI Tag

Assam’s renowned jewellery has been officially granted the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone in preserving and recognizing the state's rich cultural heritage. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this achievement on his social media platform, expressing immense pride in this honor.

Recalling the state's commitment to safeguarding the interests of its artisans and craftsmen, CM Sarma noted that the proposal to secure GI tags was first introduced in the 2018-19 state budget. "Assam's jewellery – an inseparable part of our heritage – has received its own Geographical Indication (GI) tag. I distinctly remember that in the 2018-19 Budget, we had proposed to secure a GI tag to protect our artisans. Happy to see these efforts have been realized," he posted on X.

The GI tag ensures the authenticity and uniqueness of Assamese jewellery, protecting it from unauthorized imitation and providing artisans with a stronger market identity. This recognition is expected to boost the local economy by increasing demand for traditional Assamese ornaments.

In addition to Assamese jewellery, 19 other traditional crafts and cultural products from Assam have also been granted GI tag status in April 2024. These include the Bihu Dhol, Jaapi, Sarthebari Metal Craft, Assam Pani Mateka Craft, Asharikandi Terracotta Craft, and Assam Mising Handloom Products, among others.

The Bodo community also celebrated the GI recognition of 13 traditional items on the birth anniversary of Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma, a revered leader of the Bodo people. CM Sarma emphasized that this recognition would play a crucial role in promoting and preserving their indigenous crafts.

A GI tag serves as a certification of a product’s distinct characteristics, attributes, and historical significance tied to its geographical origin. It safeguards indigenous knowledge and ensures that only authentic products from the designated region can bear the name. India's GI tag system was introduced on September 15, 2003, with Darjeeling Tea being the first Indian product to receive this recognition.