The steady expansion of GI tagging for Kashmir’s crafts marks a significant milestone in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. With fifteen Kashmiri crafts already granted GI status and six more under evaluation, J&K’s focused push reflects an understanding that traditional art and craft are not merely commercial products but repositories of history, skill and identity passed down through generations. The core purpose of GI tagging is to protect authenticity. A GI tag legally establishes that a product originates from a specific geographical region and derives its unique qualities, reputation and characteristics from that location. Kashmiri handicrafts-be it hand-knotted carpets guided by the intricate Taaleem system, fine pashmina, or delicately embroidered sozni shawls-are distinguished by techniques, raw materials and craftsmanship that cannot be replicated elsewhere. GI recognition safeguards these invaluable distinctions from dilution and misuse, especially in markets flooded with cheaper machine-made imitations.
Beyond legal protection, GI tagging plays a vital role in cultural preservation. Traditional crafts survive only when their authenticity is valued and rewarded. Machine-made carpets or shawls may be economically cheaper and faster to produce, but they lack the depth, durability and artistic individuality shaped by years of human skill and generational learning. GI tags send a clear message to consumers: these products are not commodities but cultural artefacts shaped by patience, precision and heritage. Equally important are the economic benefits. GI tagging helps ensure that artisans and craftsmen receive due recognition and fair returns for their labour. By curbing fake imitations and misuse of regional names, GI status protects market value and opens access to premium national and international markets. For Kashmir’s artisans-many of whom depend entirely on handicrafts for livelihood-this translates into sustainable income, dignity of work and motivation to keep traditional skills alive.
Jammu and Kashmir’s consistent efforts to secure GI tags are commendable, but the journey cannot end with registration alone. The true benefits of GI tagging are realised only when products are effectively promoted. Awareness campaigns, branding initiatives, digital marketplaces and tourism-linked promotion must complement legal protection. The assurance of authenticity, the recognition of uniqueness and the promise of fair economic returns together create an ecosystem where traditional art and craft can thrive. For Kashmir, it is about carrying forward a cultural legacy rooted in generations of hard work, creativity and pride.
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