Srinagar, Dec 31: Jammu and Kashmir government has embarked on an ambitious journey to improve market presence and push exports of locally manufactured Geographic Indication tagged products.
As per the draft newly released Draft Export Policy, a nodal department for GI will be established to oversee all GI-related activities, ensuring streamlined operations and policy implementation.
“A nodal department for GI will be established and the government shall pursue the following along with concerned line ministries,” it said.
The government as per the draft export policy also envisions establishing Facilitation Cells (FC). The document said that each registered GI will have a dedicated facilitation cell to address quality concerns, tackle intellectual property (IP) infringement issues, and provide logistical support for accessing online and offline marketplaces.
The draft export policy said that constant consumer programs would also be launched to ensure the proper reach of GI-tagged products to consumers. It said consumers will be educated about the uniqueness and value of GI-tagged products of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Jammu and Kashmir government also plans that GI producers will receive orientation, financial literacy, and training in collaboration with e-commerce platforms to help them scale their businesses effectively.
The government is simultaneously planning to identify the scope for GI tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative as per the policy will explore avenues for GI-based tourism to boost local economies and promote regional heritage.
The government through the policy aims to identify more products and get them registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and include them in official e-brochures to widen their market reach.
Jammu and Kashmir boasts ten registered GIs, including iconic products such as Kani Shawl, Kashmir Pashmina, Kashmir Sozani Craft, Kashmir Paper Mache, Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving, Khatam Band, Basmati Rice, Kashmiri Hand-Knotted Carpets, Kashmir Saffron, and Basohli Paintings.
This year the only product from the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory to receive a Geographical Indication (GI) marking in 2024 was Ramban Anardana, which is dried pomegranate seeds.
These items are internationally recognized for their quality and cultural significance, and the government aims to further promote them through these initiatives.