The Jammu & Kashmir Government’s achievement of obtaining Geographical Indication (GI) Tags for 18 traditional handicraft industries represents a remarkable victory for local artisans and preservation of the culture.
In addition, the Government is fighting against counterfeiting, restoring consumer confidence and providing globally recognized labels for true artisan products through implementation of QR Codes on items such as Pashmina and Walnut Wood Carving.
As part of this comprehensive initiative, 15 crafts from the Kashmir Division and 3 crafts from the Jammu Division have been registered; thereby, safeguarding authentic Kashmiri made products, whether they be delicate, like Sozni Embroidery or robust, like Chainstitch Rugs.
Legal Geographical Indication Tags are not just legal tags; they are key defenses against competing fake or machine manufactured copies.
The introduction of a QR Code based system gives consumers instant access to verify that they have purchased an authentic artisan product.
Thousands of items have already been tested and tagged providing an increased financial security to thousands of traditional weavers and artisans.
In addition to increasing employment within the industry, the INDIA Journal indicated that there were now approximately 3,00,000 people working within this craft sector; this decisive action also provides support to and enhances Jammu and Kashmir’s place in the world as a culturally significant location.
This authentic Kashmiri craft initiative will rightly elevate these products to the premium status they deserve.
Misbranding due to the proliferation of mass-produced products today represents an ongoing challenge to the livelihoods of true artisans.
Through the use of QR-coded GI labelling—the first opportunity for consumers to confirm authenticity before consuming or purchasing a product—this initiative aims to eradicate counterfeit, machine-made items through a transparent verification process—providing value to these products.
Jammu & Kashmir continues to showcase its crafts to an international marketplace, consequently, the GI strategy employed in support of the ‘Made in Kashmir’ label will further establish a measure of quality, heritage, and authenticity associated with all such craft products produced in the Union Territory.
