Basohli Pashmina, a hand-spun product known for extreme softness, fineness and light-weight, has got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
According to Department of Industries and Commerce achieved the milestone in coordination with NABARD Jammu and Human Welfare Association, Varanasi
Earlier this year, the famed Basohli painting and Chikri wood from Rajouri district received the GI tag.
Basohli Pashmina, an over a century-old traditional craft from Kathua district, has insulating properties and extended life which makes it unique.
Pashmina products include shawls for both, the men and women, mufflers, blankets and basket.
GI denotes the origin and the quality of products. Among others, it restores customer’s confidence, besides protecting the authenticity of the product. GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and ensures good qualities or a reputation in the region.
The Geographical Indications aim to protect and promote products originating in a specific geographical area. GI Tag is a treasure that can give a fillip to J&K economy and it can boost export of protected products.
Several GI Tags for local products from J&K like Bhaderwah Rajmash, Ramban Sulai Honey, Rajouri Chikri Wood Craft, Mushqbudji Rice, Basohli Painting and Kashmir Saffron will protect them from counterfeiters and unfair competition and increase the sales value of these products.
GIs of J&K products is tipped to be game-changer for the rural economy and high quality of these products will benefit the entire community of producers.
There is need for effective campaign to popularize GIs to transform the rural economy.
GIs are tipped to substantially extend wider benefits to rural areas while strengthening historical and cultural link between place and people.
Apart from ensuring sustainable livelihoods and generating more income for producers, GIs can play a key role in protection of indigenous knowledge. It helps the particular geographical area to produce and sustain niche market products. The government, of late, has made efforts regarding GI tagging of niche and premium local products to create their distinctive identity.
GI Tagging of Kashmir’s Saffron, hand knotted carpets, papier mache, Basohli Painting of Kathua and Ladakh Wood Carving of Ladakh and several other products resulted in huge success for local producers, the government has said.
Importantly, the government said, GI Tagging of several other products is in the pipeline and is likely to bring socio-economic prosperity in respective areas.
There is need by concerned authorities to go for awareness and sensitization campaigns to connect with farmers to inform them about the GI tag for their crops and benefits.
