The GI Mahotsav (Geographical Indication Festival) was inaugurated in Guwahati, on January 15, 2026. Organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) with support from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), the event highlights the intersection of cultural preservation and economic growth.

Core Objectives and Significance

  • Vocal for Local: The festival provides a platform for over 50 GI-tagged products from across India, aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Economic Empowerment: It specifically aims to enhance the livelihoods of artisans, weavers, and farmers by connecting them directly with buyers, policymakers, and industry experts.
  • Preserving Heritage: Governor Acharya emphasized that GI tags protect indigenous knowledge, regional uniqueness, and the “soul” of a region’s history.

Comprehensive List of GI Tagged Products from Assam

1. Textiles and Handloom 

  • Muga Silk of Assam, Muga Silk of Assam (logo), Bodo Eri Silk, Gamosa of Assam, Mishing Handloom Products, Assam Jaapi
  • Bodo Traditional Attire: Dokhona, Jwmgra (shawl/scarf), Gamsa, Aronai

2. Agricultural and Food Products

  • Assam Tea (Orthodox), Kaji Nemu, Tezpur Litchi, Karbi Anglong Ginger, Singpho Phalap
  • Specialty Rice Varieties: Joha Rice, Boka Chaul (Oryza sativa), Chokuwa Rice
  • Bodo Agricultural Products: Bodo Keradapini (medicinal plant/shrub), Bodo Gongar Dunjia (aromatic herb)

3. Handicrafts and Musical Instruments

  • Sarthebari Bell Metal Craft, Asharikandi Terracotta Craft, Majuli Mask Making (Mukha Shilpa), Assam Majuli Manuscript Painting, Bihu Dhol, Assam Pani Meteka Craft, Assamese Jewellery. 
  • Bodo Musical Instruments: Kham (Drum), Serja (Violin-like instrument), Sifung (Long flute), Thorkha (Percussion instrument), Gongona (Jew’s harp), and Jotha (Cymbals).

4. Manufactured and Fermented Products

  • Judima: Traditional rice wine made by the Dimasa tribe, the first traditional brew from the North East to get a GI tag.
  • Bodo Rice Beers: Bodo Jou Gwran, Maibra Jou Bidwi, Bodo Jou Gishi
  • Traditional Bodo Food: Bodo Napham, Bodo Ondla, Bodo Gwkha, Bodo Narzi

The Legal Framework: GI Act, 1999

A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.

  • Legislation: Governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
  • Administration: Issued by the Geographical Indications Registry (Chennai) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • Validity: The registration is valid for 10 years, renewable for further periods of 10 years.
  • International Compliance: The Act was enacted to comply with India’s obligations under the WTO-TRIPS Agreement.

Exam Hook

Q. With reference to ‘Geographical Indication (GI)’ tags in India, consider the following statements:

  1. A GI tag is a type of intellectual property right that can be assigned, licensed, or mortgaged like a trademark.
  2. The registration of a Geographical Indication is valid for a period of 10 years and can be renewed.
  3. The ‘Muga Silk’ and ‘Kaji Nemu’ are registered GI products originating from the state of Assam.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect because GIs are public property owned by the producers; they cannot be assigned, licensed, or mortgaged. Statements 2 and 3 are correct.

One line wrap: The GI Mahotsav serves as a bridge between India’s ancient cultural roots and its modern MSME-driven economic aspirations.

Source

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Recent Posts

Start Yours at Ajmal IAS – with Mentorship StrategyDisciplineClarityResults that Drives Success

Your dream deserves this moment — begin it here.