In a recent achievement, Uttar Pradesh, renowned for its diverse cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts, has been recognized by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai with Geographical Indication (GI) tags for seven of its unique products. This accreditation brings merit to the state’s rich craftsmanship while ensuring protection for these distinctive goods.
Highlighting the Seven GI Tag Recipients of Uttar Pradesh
The proud bearers of the new GI tags from Uttar Pradesh are a medley of musical instruments, handloom furnishings, handmade paper, stone craft, brass inlays, and horn crafts. The diversity of these products paints a vivid picture of the region’s multifaceted artistry.
Celebrating Amroha Dholak: The Rhythm of Nature
The Amroha Dholak is a celebrated musical instrument, crafted from types of natural wood. Common choices include mango, jackfruit, and teakwood. Animal skin, primarily goatskin, is fitted meticulously to form the drum’s surface.
Unveiling Baghpat Home Furnishings: Looms that Weave Magic
Baghpat and Meerut have earned renown for their exclusive handloom home furnishing products. Crafted largely on frame looms, this crafting process leverages cotton yarn.
Appraising Barabanki Handloom Product: The Fabric of Success
With approximately 50,000 weavers and 20,000 looms, Barabanki and its surrounding areas are prolific handloom hubs. The annual turnover of this cluster stands around ₹150 crore.
Recognizing Kalpi Handmade Paper: A Page from the Past
Kalpi is a noteworthy hub for handmade paper manufacturing. Munnalal ‘Khaddari,’ a Gandhian, introduced this craft in the 1940s. Nonetheless, Kalpi’s history possibly traces the roots of this craft back even further.
Unearthing Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip: Carving a Niche
Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip is emblematic of the unique stone craft from Mahoba. The stone used, scientifically known as ‘Pyro Flight Stone,’ is soft and radiant white-coloured stone predominantly found in the region.
Discovering Mainpuri Tarkashi: An Art that Strikes a Chord
Mainpuri Tarkashi, characterised by brass wire inlay work on wood, is a beloved art form. Traditionally utilized for khadaous (wooden sandals), it has been a staple household item in many homes.
[Appreciating Sambhal Horn Craft: A Testament of Timeless Skill
The Sambhal Horn Craft combines respect for the circle of life with unmatched craftsmanship. All materials are derived from deceased animals, and every piece is handmade.
A deeper understanding of Geographical Indications
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a sign or a name used on specific products that correspond to a particular geographical location or origin. The GI tag safeguards these product names from being imitated or copied by unauthorised users and allows only the designated users or those residing in the geographical area to use the popular name.
GI Tags under Legal Framework and Obligations
The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 provides registration and better protection of geographical indications related to goods in India. The Act is governed by the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Articles 1(2) and 10 of the Paris Convention highlight the importance of protecting geographical indications as an integral part of intellectual property.
Relevance in UPSC Civil Services Examination
Questions regarding GI tags have often found a place in UPSC Civil Services Examinations. Therefore, it is vital for aspirants to be aware of recent additions to the list of products bearing GI tags.
