Jharkhand received Geographical Indication (GI) tags for 11 traditional products in 2026, recognising distinct textile, craft, painting and food items from the state.
The 11 GI‑tagged Products
- Bhoya (Bhagaiya) Saree & Fabric: Bhagaiya silk‑based handloom textile tradition.
- Kuchai Silk Saree: Kuchai sericulture silk saree tradition.
- Tussar Silk & Sarees: Wild silk from Antheraea spp., used in local sericulture.
- Pancho Saree & Fabric: Regional handwoven saree type from Jharkhand.
- Tumka Chadar: Traditional handwoven wrap/cloth from specific artisan communities.
- Kesaria Kalakand: Regional milk‑based confectionery with distinct local recipe.
- Dokra Craft: Tribal lost‑wax (cire‑perdue) metal casting craft.
- Jharkhand Bamboo Craft: Indigenous bamboo craft traditions and products.
- Baroni Paintings: Local tribal/folk painting tradition.
- Jadopatia Painting: Santhal narrative folk painting tradition.
- Munda Jewellery: Distinctive jewellery forms and motifs of the Munda tribe.
Legal & Institutional Facts
- Statute: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999 governs GI in India.
- TRIPS: TRIPS Article 22(1) defines GI as a sign indicating goods’ geographical origin where quality/reputation is linked to that origin.
- Registry: GI Registry is located in Chennai under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
- Validity: GI registration confers protection for 10 years; registration is renewable.
- NABARD role: NABARD facilitated GI registration for four items—Bhagaiya (Bhoya) Saree, Kuchai Silk, Munda Jewellery and Jharkhand Bamboo Craft.
- Precedent: Sohrai Painting from Jharkhand had earlier obtained GI recognition.
- Legal effect: GI prevents unauthorised use of the registered geographical name and links commercial rights to defined producer groups.