The Office of Development Commissioner for Handlooms, under the Ministry of Textiles, is set to elevate Indian GI-tagged handloom products to the global market through a one-day event, “GI and Beyond-2024.” Scheduled for November 25, 2024, at The Oberoi, New Delhi, this initiative is organized in collaboration with the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC). It aims to promote the branding and market reach of India’s Geographical Indication (GI) handloom and handicraft products among stakeholders like international buyers, exporters, and multinational corporations (MNCs).
The event will be graced by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles as the chief guest, alongside the Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles as the guest of honor. The presence of other notable dignitaries, including the Secretary (Textiles), Development Commissioners for Handlooms and Handicrafts, and the Controller General of Patents, Trademark & GI, underscores the event’s importance.
Bringing together over 30 overseas buyers, 80 exporters, 70 GI-authorized users, and 80 government officials, the summit offers a unique platform for collaboration and dialogue. A significant highlight will be the formal handing over of 10 new GI certificates to applicants, further strengthening India’s GI ecosystem. The event also features a thematic display of GI-tagged handloom and handicraft products, celebrating the diverse artisanal heritage of India.
Adding depth to the event, a technical session will address topics such as ensuring product quality, GI initiatives for sustainable market linkages, and expanding the export potential of GI-tagged products. This knowledge-sharing aims to connect traditional craftsmanship with modern business strategies, fostering a thriving, globally competitive handloom sector.
GI tags, as legal markers of products with distinct regional origins and characteristics, are pivotal in preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
Under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999, implemented in 2003, these tags protect producers, enhance market value, and prevent exploitation.
