On 1 July 2026, eight Himachal Pradesh products were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status. The registrations were secured through the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment (HIMCOSTE).
The Eight GI-Recognised Products
- Spiti Seabuckthorn (Chharma): Seabuckthorn, scientific name Hippophae rhamnoides; wild shrub of cold-arid Spiti used for edible oil and nutraceuticals.
- Salooni Safed Makka: White maize landrace from Salooni (Chamba district).
- Chamba Metal Art: Traditional metal craft tradition of Chamba district.
- Sirmauri Loiya: Traditional woollen garment from Sirmaur.
- Kinnauri Topi: Distinctive cap from Kinnaur district.
- Sepuvadi of Mandi: Traditional lentil-based dish linked to Mandi culinary practice.
- Kinnauri Apple: Apple produce associated with Kinnaur hill orchards.
- Kinnauri Jewellery: Traditional jewellery styles of Kinnaur.
State Status and Pending Applications
- Total GI Count: With these additions Himachal Pradesh now has 17 GI-tagged products.
- Pending Registrations: State pursuing GI for Bhot Jau (barley, Pangi, Chamba), Chamba Chukh (chilli paste), Plectranthus honey (Bharmour, Chamba) and Sirmaur ginger.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- Law: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 governs GI in India.
- TRIPS: TRIPS Article 22(1) defines GI as a sign identifying goods as originating from a territory with qualities or reputation due to that origin.
- Registry: GI Registry is based in Chennai under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
- Legal Effect: GI registration confers statutory protection against unauthorised use and misuse of the registered indication.
- Notable Earlier GI: Darjeeling Tea received India’s first recognised GI (2004–05).