Arunachal Pradesh showcased its rich cultural and artisanal heritage at its first-ever Geographical Indication (GI) Mahotsav in New Delhi. The three-day event, inaugurated by Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan, was held at Select City Walk, Saket, and saw participation from key dignitaries, including Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and MPs Tapir Gao and Phangnon Konyak. Chief Minister Pema Khandu, while addressing the gathering, declared that the GI Mahotsav will be an annual calendar event, underscoring the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting its indigenous crafts.
Arunachal Pradesh currently holds the highest number of GI tags in Northeast India, with 20 GI-tagged products spanning textiles, handicrafts, and agricultural goods. The government has set an ambitious target of 50 GI-tagged products by 2030, aiming to add 30 more in the coming years. The event provided a crucial platform for local artisans, weavers, and farmers, offering them greater exposure to national and international markets. The GI tag, a prestigious certification, helps protect the authenticity of regional products, ensuring that traditional knowledge and craftsmanship are preserved for future generations.
The Arunachal Pradesh government has been actively working on identifying and certifying indigenous products that reflect the state’s rich traditions. The Mahotsav not only celebrated these products but also created awareness about the importance of GI tagging in enhancing market value and securing intellectual property rights. Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Khandu urged the public to support local artisans and traditional industries, emphasizing that such initiatives will boost rural economies while strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s position in the handloom, handicrafts, and agricultural sectors.
