Key facts
- Jharkhand's Bhagaiya silk, Kuchai silk, Munda jewellery, and bamboo craft have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
- NABARD was instrumental in facilitating the GI registration process for these products.
- The GI tags are expected to enhance market visibility and economic benefits for local artisans and weavers.
- Bhagaiya and Kuchai silks highlight Jharkhand's rich sericulture traditions.
- Munda jewellery celebrates the artistic traditions of the Munda tribal community.
- Jharkhand bamboo craft acknowledges the creativity of rural artisans.
Jharkhand's traditional Bhagaiya silk, Kuchai silk, Munda jewellery, and bamboo craft products have been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tags, recognizing their unique heritage and craftsmanship. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) announced the achievement, highlighting its role in supporting the artisans and weavers throughout the registration process.
NABARD stated that the GI recognition is a significant milestone for the state's rural economy, aiming to preserve unique traditional heritage. The bank played a crucial role in identifying product characteristics, organizing producers, strengthening value chains, and facilitating the documentation and stakeholder consultations necessary for GI registration.
The GI status for Bhagaiya and Kuchai silks is expected to bring national attention to Jharkhand's sericulture traditions, protecting their authenticity and allowing producers to command premium prices. Similarly, the recognition for Munda jewellery celebrates the distinct artistic traditions of the Munda tribal community, preserving traditional knowledge and creating livelihood opportunities. The inclusion of Jharkhand bamboo craft acknowledges the creativity of rural artisans in transforming local bamboo resources into utility and decorative items, promoting sustainable livelihoods.