Assam has achieved another milestone in preserving its rich cultural heritage and promoting rural livelihoods as four iconic products from the state have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Geographical Indications Registry of the Government of India.
The newly GI-certified products are:
- Karbi Anglong Handloom Products
- Assam Bihu Pepa
- Assam Bamboo Crafts
- Deuri Handloom Products
The certification process was supported by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), which has been actively promoting GI registration of unique products from Assam.
The latest recognitions are expected to provide legal protection to these traditional products while creating new livelihood opportunities for artisans, weavers and craftsmen across the state.
Four New GI Products from Assam
1. Karbi Anglong Handloom Products
Karbi Anglong is known for its vibrant tribal weaving traditions.
The GI tag recognizes:
- Traditional weaving techniques
- Unique tribal motifs and designs
- Indigenous craftsmanship passed down through generations
The recognition is expected to enhance the visibility of Karbi textiles in domestic and international markets.
2. Assam Bihu Pepa
The Bihu Pepa is a traditional wind instrument made primarily from buffalo horn and is an integral part of Assam’s famous Bihu festival.
The GI certification:
- Protects its authenticity.
- Preserves traditional manufacturing techniques.
- Promotes Assam’s folk music heritage.
The Bihu Pepa is one of the most recognizable cultural symbols of Assam.
3. Assam Bamboo Crafts
Assam has a long tradition of bamboo craftsmanship, producing a wide range of utility and decorative items.
The GI tag will help:
- Protect traditional bamboo designs.
- Promote eco-friendly handicrafts.
- Increase market opportunities for artisans.
- Encourage sustainable use of natural resources.
The bamboo sector supports thousands of rural families in Assam.
4. Deuri Handloom Products
The Deuri community possesses a rich handloom tradition characterized by distinctive patterns and indigenous designs.
The GI recognition will:
- Preserve traditional weaving skills.
- Enhance product branding.
- Improve market access for Deuri artisans.
- Promote tribal heritage at national and international levels.
NABARD’s Role in Promoting GI Products
The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) played a crucial role in facilitating the GI registration process.
These certifications not only strengthen the identity and authenticity of these products but also enhance their market potential at national and international levels.”
With these additions, the total number of GI-certified products supported by NABARD in Assam has reached 12.
This milestone reflects NABARD’s commitment to heritage-based rural development and economic empowerment.
How GI Tags Benefit Artisans and Rural Communities
GI certification offers several advantages to local producers and communities.
Legal Protection
GI tags provide protection against:
- Unauthorised imitation
- Misuse of product names
- Counterfeit products
Better Market Access
Certified products gain:
- Greater consumer trust
- Wider national and international recognition
- Enhanced branding opportunities
Premium Pricing
GI products often command:
- Higher market value
- Better price realization
- Increased incomes for producers
Preservation of Traditional Knowledge
The recognition helps preserve:
- Indigenous skills
- Traditional craftsmanship
- Cultural identity
- Community heritage
Building a Sustainable GI Ecosystem
NABARD has stated that the next phase of work will focus on developing a complete ecosystem around GI products.
The strategy includes:
- Branding and promotion
- Market linkages
- Capacity building
- Enterprise development
- Export promotion
- Value chain strengthening
The objective is to transform GI-certified products into sustainable and remunerative livelihood opportunities for rural communities.
Strengthening Assam’s Cultural Heritage
Assam is renowned for its:
- Rich handloom traditions
- Indigenous crafts
- Folk music and cultural heritage
- Tribal art forms
- Traditional knowledge systems
The latest GI recognitions further strengthen the state’s portfolio of heritage products and showcase how traditional skills can contribute to modern economic development.
Conclusion
The GI certification of Karbi Anglong Handloom Products, Assam Bihu Pepa, Assam Bamboo Crafts and Deuri Handloom Products marks a significant achievement for Assam.
Supported by NABARD, these recognitions are expected to preserve cultural heritage, protect traditional knowledge and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for thousands of artisans and rural families.
As Assam continues to leverage its rich cultural assets, GI tags are emerging as a powerful tool for inclusive and heritage-based economic development.