SRINAGAR: Eight more crafts from Kashmir are set to receive Geographical indication (GI) certification.
Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir is working hard to get GI certification for Namda, Wagguv, Shikara, Gabba, Willow Bat, Chain Stitch. Crewel and Tweed.
A meeting of the Consultative Group was held at New Delhi on November 18, to ascertain the correctness of the particulars GI application submitted by the Jammu and Kashmir government.
As per requirement of Rule 33 of GeographicalIindications (Registration & Protection) Ruies, 2002, the office of GI Registry, has constituted the Consultative Group of Experts to ascertain the correctness of the particulars furnished in the GI applications
“The Consultative Group will ascertain the correctness of particulars furnished in the GI Application and Statement of Case referred to in Rule 32(1) of Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Rules 2002 and make necessary recommendations. It is requested that the PowerPoint presentation covering (i) Details about the Applicant and how the Applicant represents the interest of the producers of the Gl goods (ii) Proof of Origin (Historical records), (i) Method of Production, (iv) Area (Map & other relevant particulars) (v) Uniqueness, (vi) Inspection Body & Quality Control mechanisms, (vii) Other information, which the applicant feel relevant and proper has to be placed before the Consultative Group, which should not exceed 20 Minutes of duration (preferably),” Registrar of GI Registry said in a letter.
Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir is also submitting the dossier for GI certification for copperware (kandkari ) and houseboats.
Earlier seven major crafts have been granted GI tags. Kani Shawl, Pashmina, Sozni, Paper-Machie, Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, and Hand Knotted Carpets have already been GI certified.
“We have been longing for this initiative. It will infuse new life to our craft,” said Farooq Ahmad Khan, a Namda artisan, who gave a presentation before the Consultative Group of Experts.
Khan said there are many fakes and substandard products available in the market which is bringing bad repute to the artisans and the craft.
“GI tag will put an end to such trade practices. Customers will definitely be the king. GI tag will repose trust and confidence and boost our trade. Plus our artisans who work very hard will get recognition the world over,” he said.