Closing Ceremony of Exhibition and Sale of Himachal Pradesh’s Registered and Prospective GI Products
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The closing ceremony of the exhibition and sale of Himachal Pradesh’s registered and prospective Geographical Indication (GI) products was held on June 16, 2024, at the Indira Gandhi State Sports Complex on Mall Road, Shimla. The event, which started on June 12, 2024, was organized by the Patent Information Centre of the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (HIMCOSTE), Shimla. Dr. Suresh Chand Atri, Joint Member Secretary of HIMCOSTE, presided over the closing ceremony.
The exhibition featured approximately 15 registered and potential GI products from Himachal Pradesh. The registered GI products included:
– Kullu Shawls and Kullu Logo
– Kangra Tea
– Chamba Rumal
– Kinnauri Shawls
– Kangra Paintings
– Himachali Black Cumin
– Himachali Chuli Oil
– Chamba Chappals
– Lahauli Socks and Gloves
Potential GI products identified for registration included:
– Chamba Metal Craft (application for registration already submitted)
– Kinnauri Jewelry
– Spiti Charma
– Bharmaur Rajma
– Pangi’s Thangi
– Chamba Chuk
– Red Rice
– Dangra Sirmauri Loia
– Karsog Kulthi
– Himachali Dham
– Himachali Musical Instruments
– Kinnauri Apples
– Sepu Badi
Dr. Suresh Chand Atri, the chief guest, explained that a Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin, such as Chamba Rumal and Chamba Chappal from Chamba district, Kangra Tea, and Kangra Paintings from Kangra district. He emphasized that the registration of GI products provides legal protection to geographical indications, which in turn promotes exports. This protection enhances the economic prosperity of producers in the geographical region where the products are made. The registration is carried out under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Dr. Atri highlighted that the exhibition offered a unique opportunity for locals and tourists to learn about GI products and purchase valuable traditional items. The event also served to promote the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
