Ajrakh from Kutch gets GI tag

Context

The Geographical Indication (GI) certificate was awarded to the traditional artisans of ‘Kutch Ajrakh from the Kutch region in Gujarat.

Ajrakh Gets GI tag

For the artisans of Kutch Ajrakh, this certification validates their craftsmanship and safeguards their traditional knowledge and techniques from exploitation or misappropriation.

• It will provide a platform for artisans to showcase their craftsmanship on a global stage while fostering sustainable livelihoods within the community. 

Ajrakh

It is a time-honored textile craft in the Sindh, Barmer, and Kutch region of Gujrat. In Kutch, the villages of Dhamadka and Ajrakhpur serve as strongholds of the Ajrakh tradition, where artisans persist in employing time-honored techniques inherited through generations. 

• Origin: Its origin dates back 400 years to the introduction of the craft by Sind Muslims to the region. 
• Ajrakh Art: The art of Ajrakh involves hand-block printing on treated cotton fabric, resulting in elaborate designs infused with deep symbolism and historical significance. 
• It involves acquiring natural vegetable and mineral dyes and employing intricate resist printing and dyeing methods.

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About Geographical Indication (GI)

• Meaning: A GI tag is a sign that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical region and having a distinctive quality or reputation.
• Prohibition: It prevents its use by a third party whose product does not conform to the applicable standards. 
  • However, it does not enable the holder to prevent someone from making a product using the same techniques as those set out in the standards for that indication. 
• Applicability: It is used for Agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.
• Nodal Agency:  Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Validity: 10 years
• Granted by: Geographical Indication Registry in Chennai.
• Legal Framework:  Agreement on TRIPS at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) governs GI.
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
• Significance of GI Tag: The GI tag, a mark of authenticity and origin, provides legal protection to products, services, or arts originating from specific geographical regions.

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