Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 1 (ANI): In a major boost to the state’s rural economy and cultural heritage, eight traditional products of social, economic, cultural, and agricultural significance from Himachal Pradesh have officially been registered as Geographical Indications (GIs).
With these new additions, the state has now secured a total of 17 GI-registered traditional products, championed through the Himachal Pradesh State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE).
The newly recognised products span across various regions of the state: Spiti: Seabuckthorn (Chharma), Chamba: Salooni Safed Makka (White Maize) and Chamba Metal Art, Sirmaur: Sirmauri Loiya (Traditional woollen gown), Kinnaur: Kinnauri Topi (Cap), Kinnauri Apple, and Kinnauri Jewellery, Mandi: Sepuvadi (A traditional lentil-based dish).
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu congratulated the people of the state, terming the development a landmark achievement.
“This recognition is a testimony to the sustained efforts of the state government over the last three and a half years to preserve, protect, and promote Himachal Pradesh’s traditional heritage,” CM Sukhu said. He emphasised that the GI tags will safeguard the authenticity of these products, prevent unauthorised imitation, and significantly enhance their market value, thereby creating new livelihood opportunities and strengthening the rural economy.
“This milestone will open new avenues for economic growth, rural entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods for our indigenous communities, artisans, weavers, and farmers,” the Chief Minister added.
Looking ahead, Chief Minister Sukhu revealed that the state government is actively pursuing GI registration for four additional indigenous products:
Bhot Jau (Barley from the Pangi region of Chamba), Chamba Chukh (A traditional chilli paste), Plectranthus honey (From the Bharmour region of Chamba), Sirmaur Ginger.
The Chief Minister has directed the concerned authorities to vigorously pursue the registration process for these items.
Sushil Kumar Singla, Secretary of Environment, Science, Technology, and Climate Change, noted that the GI registration serves as an effective legal shield against misuse while dramatically boosting the branding, marketability, and export potential of Himachali crafts and produce.
Before this announcement, Himachal Pradesh held nine GI tags, including the world-famous Kullu Shawl, Kangra Tea, Chamba Rumal, Kinnauri Shawl, Kangra Painting, Himachali Kalazeera, Himachali Chulli (Apricot) Oil, Chamba Chappal, and Lahauli Knitted Socks and Gloves.
The official briefing was also attended by Dr. Manmohan Singh (Director), Rupali Thakur (Himachal Pradesh Institute of Public Administration), and Dr. Suresh Attri (Member Secretary, State Council for Science, Technology and Environment). (ANI)
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