Arunachal aims to secure GI tags for 30 more Indigenous products: CM Khandu

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu announced the state's ambitious plan to expand its list of Geographical Indication (GI) tag products while inaugurating the three-day Arunachal GI Mahotsav in the national capital.

Highlighting the significance of the event, CM Khandu stated, "Around 20 products from Arunachal Pradesh have already received GI tags. We felt it was important to promote our GI products in big cities. Our target is to add 30 more indigenous products to this list."

The festival serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage and unique traditional products of Arunachal Pradesh, further strengthening their recognition and market value across the country.

In 2024, three items of Arunachal Pradesh have received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. 

These are adi kekir (ginger), carpet handmade by Tibetan settlers and wooden items made by the Wancho community, they said. 

Also Read: Arunachal's Pride: Adi Kekir Ginger – Spice of the Hills

Adi kekir is a variety of ginger produced in the East Siang, Siang and Upper Siang districts. 

It is known for its taste and size. Handmade carpets prepared by the Tibetan refugees who live in various parts of the state are famous for their typical designs, motifs and textures. 

Wanchoo wooden craft items are unique as they feature human heads -- tobacco pipes with head-shaped bowls and drinking mugs with warriors carrying heads. 

The artisans also create sculptures of Lord Buddha, animals, and dolls. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) is supporting the initiative of the state government to promote these products, and is also providing financial assistance.

Of the 18 such products supported by NABARD for GI registration, six products have received the certification so far.