Assam’s Jewelry Receives Prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, Honoring the State’s Cultural Heritage

In a momentous achievement for Assam, the state’s iconic jewelry has been granted the highly esteemed Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone in preserving and recognizing its rich cultural heritage. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared the exciting news on his social media, expressing immense pride in this recognition.

CM Sarma reflected on the journey that led to this accomplishment, recalling that the proposal to secure GI tags for Assam’s products was made in the 2018-19 state budget to protect the interests of local artisans and craftsmen. What was once a dream has now become a reality, he noted. In his post on X, he said, “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 realised.”

The GI tag is an important recognition, ensuring the authenticity and uniqueness of Assamese jewelry, preventing imitation, and providing artisans with a stronger market identity. This recognition is expected to boost the local economy as demand for traditional Assamese ornaments rises.

In April 2024, Assam’s cultural wealth expanded further, with 19 other traditional crafts and items, including the Bihu Dhol, Jaapi, and products from the Bodo community, also receiving the GI tag. These include crafts like Sarthebari Metal Craft, Assam Pani Mateka Craft, Assam Asharikandi Terracotta Craft, and Assam Mising Handloom Products.

Previously, CM Sarma had celebrated the GI tag achievements, emphasizing the economic impact, as nearly a lakh people are directly involved in these heritage crafts. He also acknowledged the collaboration with NABARD, RO Guwahati, and Padma Shri Dr. Rajani Kant, a GI expert, in securing these tags.

In addition, 13 traditional items from the Bodo community were granted GI status on Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma’s birth anniversary, further promoting the preservation and recognition of their handicrafts.

The GI tag system, which came into effect in India on September 15, 2003, was first awarded to Darjeeling Tea. It is now a crucial tool in protecting indigenous knowledge and ensuring that only genuine products from the designated region can be sold under its name.