Chief Secretary Launches Initiative to Elevate J&K’s GI-Tagged Products

The Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, Atal Dulloo, has initiated a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing the economic and cultural significance of the region’s Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products. This directive, announced during a recent meeting, seeks to bolster the livelihoods of local artisans and farmers while safeguarding the unique cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

Focus on Quality and Authenticity

During the meeting, which included key officials such as Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Production Department, and Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary of Industries and Commerce, Dulloo emphasized the necessity for robust measures to ensure that these products meet international quality standards. He stressed the importance of maintaining authenticity to protect against counterfeiting.

One of the key directives was to enhance traceability features for GI-tagged handicrafts, thereby improving their global recognition. The Chief Secretary called for the expansion of testing facilities throughout the region and urged for the expedited NABL accreditation of the Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) in Kashmir. This enhancement is expected to improve the acceptability of local products in international markets.

Implementing Best Practices

In line with global best practices, Kumar proposed the development of tamper-proof labels for each GI product. These labels would provide critical details about the product’s unique features, place of origin, and the artisan responsible for its creation. He suggested the introduction of a quality enforcement mechanism to allow for the return of substandard products to sellers, a practice already in place in various parts of Europe.

In an effort to raise awareness about J&K’s crafts, the meeting discussed the use of billboards and informational materials to promote local craft villages. The emphasis on enhancing market access for these products aims to empower local artisans and preserve traditional craftsmanship.

The Director of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, Masarat-ul-Islam, highlighted that the GI certification process is designed to protect traditional skills while preventing the proliferation of counterfeit goods. He mentioned that every GI-tagged craft now features a QR code label, which includes essential information such as the manufacturer’s name, artisan details, and material specifications. This initiative is aimed at ensuring both transparency and quality assurance.

Recent updates revealed that the IICT Srinagar laboratory has received NABL certification. The PTQCC has also been upgraded with an Optical Fibre Diameter Analyzer (OFDA), significantly enhancing its testing capacity and reducing turnaround times for quality assessments.

Plans are also underway to establish a new Quality Control Lab dedicated to eight newly registered GI crafts, further strengthening the region’s commitment to quality and authenticity in its traditional products. As of March 2025, a total of 15 crafts from the Kashmir Division, such as Sozni, Pashmina Shawl, and Kani Shawl, have been registered with GI tags. From the Jammu Division, GI status has been granted to Basohli Pashmina and Rajouri Chikri Wood.

In the agricultural sector, seven products, including Kashmir Saffron and Basmati Rice, have secured GI tags, while others like Kashmir Ambri Apple and Kashmiri Haak are being processed for registration. This thorough initiative reflects Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to preserving its rich traditions, enhancing product credibility, and creating sustainable livelihoods for its artisans and farmers.