GI Tag for Ladakh’s wood carving to make cultural traditions popular, benefit artisans: PM

Ladakh, Apr 5 (KNN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded GI (Geographical Indications) tagging for Ladakh's Wood Carving and said that this would make Union Territory’s cultural traditions even more popular and benefit artisans.

A total of 33 products have been given the GOI tag during 2022-23, one of which belongs to UT of Ladakh.

The GI is an authorization given to a product originating from a specific geographic area having unique attributes. It is a form of Intellectual Property (IP) but unlike other Ips such as patents, copyrights, trademarks etc, is not owned by individuals but by community.

The unique form of wood carving which has received GI tag is concentrated in Wanla and Cjoglamasar districts of Leh. The craft has a distinct cultural and religious influence. The carving is carried out for  products such folding tables, cupboards, wooden pots, tea mixing pot (Grugur) and ritual bowls etc, employing special tool box called zag ham.

National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has helped secure the GI for the woodcarving.  NABRD has been working in the region for various GIs in J&K and Ladakh.

A GI tag product carries the guarantee of authenticity associated with a specific region.  Some of popular GI products in India include Darjeeling tea, Banarasi saree, Kullu shawls, Mysore silk etc.

There are 432 GIs granted by Government of India so far.  (KNN Bureau)