This is the first time in the history of GI that Jammu region and Ladakh (UT) got GI tag for handicrafts but earlier the same Tags (GI) were given to Kashmir handicrafts.
Giving a big boost to the beautiful wooden work from Ladakh, the Indian government has granted it Geographical Indication (GI) tag thus ensuring its authenticity.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the move will make Ladakh’s cultural traditions even more popular and benefit artisans. The Geographical Indications (GI) is a form of intellectual property right that identifies goods originating from a specific geographical location and having distinct nature, quality and characteristics linked to that location.
The process for GI Tagging of these products was started by NABARD in consultation with and support from the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom in December 2020, reported Daily Excelsior.
This is the first time in the history of GI that Jammu region and Ladakh (UT) got GI tag for handicrafts but earlier the same Tags (GI) were given to Kashmir handicrafts. Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Kathua-Udhampur constituency Dr Jitendra Singh tweeted: “A proud moment for Basohli region of J&K. This unique painting known for evocative colours and deep-set facial patterns will now gain more prominence globally.”
“Basohli painting of Kathua district is the first independent GI tag from Jammu region, whereas the Ladakh Wood Carving is the first handicraft of Ladakh to get a GI Tag. Now, only an authorized user has the exclusive rights to use the Geographical Indication in relation to these products,” said an official of NABARD.
“No person can copy it from beyond their geographical areas. This will prevent unauthorised use of these registered Geographical Indication goods by third parties and will boost exports and promote their brands at international level,” the official said, reported Daily Excelsior.
Member of Parliament Ladakh Jamyang Tsering Namgyal also congratulated people of Ladakh for GI Tag to Ladakh’s Wood Carving.
“Greetings to the people of Ladakh for getting #GITag to Ladakh’s #WoodCarving, a first of its kind. It will surely promote the handicraft culture of the artisans as well as the local economy of the artisans of Ladakh globally,” he tweeted.
Ladakh’s wood carving has been known for its intricate designs and unique patterns, which are mostly inspired by Buddhist themes and motifs. The wood carvings are made from local wood such as willow and apricot, and they are often used for decorating doors, windows, and other household items, reported ET Government.
The GI tag for Ladakh’s Wood Carving is likely to boost the local economy by promoting tourism and creating employment opportunities for artisans. The recognition will also protect the traditional knowledge and skills of wood carving, ensuring that it is passed down to future generations.
The GI tags are used to protect the products from being copied or imitated by others and to ensure that consumers get genuine and authentic products.
Wood carving of Ladakh has been an aesthetically vibrant art form in the Ladakh region, including the capital Leh and Kargil.
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