AR Bhat
Kashmir – the land of invaluable treasures truly signifying incredible India has long been renowned for its exquisite handicrafts that embody the region’s rich cultural heritage. The intricate craftsmanship of Kashmiri artisans passed down through generations, has captivated people worldwide. However, in the modern times, industrialization and urbanization, while bringing numerous advancements, regrettably result in negatively impacting the preservation of these traditional crafts and heritage world over. Kashmir bestowed with such rich cultural legacy and traditional craftsmanship is no different and its exquisite handicraft therefore need to be protected in the face of rapid modernization. In recent years, the grant of Geographical Indication (GI) tags is a visionary step towards not only protecting but also promoting these esteemed handicrafts has gained recognition and importance.
Geographical Indication or GI tag is an indication used to identify goods primarily agricultural, natural or manufactured products having special characteristics originating from a definite geographical territory. The certification is governed by World trade Organisation rules with a validity of 10 years and provides the product legal protection against any unauthorized use apart from promotion of the product & also acts as a certificate of authenticity. So far seven crafts from Kashmir to include the Kani Shawl, world famous Pashmina, Sozni (delicate and intricate embroidery work, often done on shawls, stoles, and other garments), Papier Mache, Walnut Wood carving, Khatamband (traditional wooden ceiling and wall decorations featuring interlocking geometric patterns) and the Hand Knotted Carpets have been GI certified while the process for registering five more crafts is underway. Apart from these, Kashmir Namda(traditional felted woolen rugs and floor coverings), Wagguv (handwoven blankets made from locally sourced wool) and the famous Shikara are under process for GI registration.
The GI tag certification has provided significant protection to traditional craftsmanship by specifying the origin and authenticity of the handicrafts, in order to guard against misrepresentation and unethical interpretation, preserving the integrity and sanctity of the craft. The certification also elevates the market value of Kashmiri handicrafts by making them exclusive, unique, and authentic. This recognition allows artisans to demand fair prices for their products in both national and international markets and provides them with the deserved recognition and credit for their intricate craftsmanship, rewarding their dedication and preserving their artistic heritage thereby leading to improved incomes and better quality of life for artisans, empowering them economically and socially.
While the GI certification empowers the artisan, at the same time it also enables consumers to differentiate between genuine Kashmiri handicrafts and counterfeit imitations. This ensures that consumers can make informed choices and support the artisans by purchasing authentic products. The GI certification acts as a quality assurance mechanism, assuring consumers that the products meet specific standards of craftsmanship, materials, and production techniques.
The associated benefits also include attracting cultural tourism, leading to increased visitor attraction, economic growth, and job opportunities for the local community. GI certification enhances the market appeal and demand for Kashmiri handicrafts, opening up new avenues for sales and export opportunities, thereby boosting the region’s economy. The younger generations are encouraged to embrace and preserve these traditional skills and techniques, preventing their decline in an era dominated by modern technology. This in turn would foster a sense of pride and continuity in the artisan community, reinforcing their cultural identity and promoting the continuation of the rich artistic heritage of Kashmir for future generations
