By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Four traditional products from Assam have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Government of India, providing formal recognition to the state’s rich cultural, artisanal, and handloom heritage.
The newly certified products include Karbi Anglong Handloom Products, Assam Bihu Pepa, Assam Bamboo Crafts and Deuri Handloom Products. With this recognition, these items will now enjoy legal protection against unauthorized use while gaining enhanced credibility and market visibility in both domestic and international markets.
The four additions showcase the breadth of Assam’s traditional knowledge systems, ranging from indigenous weaving techniques and bamboo-based craftsmanship to the Bihu Pepa, an iconic musical instrument central to Assam’s cultural celebrations.
The registration process was supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), which has been actively assisting artisan communities in securing GI status for region-specific products across the state.
NABARD Assam Chief General Manager Loken Das said the recognition is expected to strengthen the identity of these traditional goods while also creating new livelihood opportunities for artisans, weavers, and rural craftsmen.
He noted that GI certification not only preserves authenticity but also improves market access and strengthens demand for indigenous products at both national and global levels.
With the latest inclusion, the total number of GI-tagged products in Assam supported by NABARD has increased to 12, reflecting steady progress in documenting and protecting local heritage-based goods.
GI tags are awarded to products that originate from a specific geographical region and are known for distinct qualities or reputation linked to that location. The certification helps safeguard traditional knowledge systems, restricts misuse of product names, and enhances economic opportunities for local producers.
The recognition is expected to benefit thousands of artisans and weavers across Assam, particularly those engaged in handloom weaving, bamboo crafts, and other traditional occupations.
Officials associated with the initiative said efforts are now being directed towards strengthening value chains and developing sustainable markets for GI-certified products, beyond just securing recognition.
The latest development further reinforces Assam’s growing presence in India’s GI map and highlights the increasing focus on preserving and promoting the state’s indigenous cultural and artisanal identity.