Jharkhand Handicrafts Receive GI Tag Under Geographical Indications Act, 1999

GI tag protection now applies to Jharkhand’s Bhagaiya silk, Kuchai silk, Munda jewellery, and bamboo craft. GI tag registration and protection is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, and the GI tag authorises protection of goods linked to a specific geographical origin.

GI Tag for Jharkhand Handicrafts:

Dimension	Key Details
Products covered	GI tag protection applies to Bhagaiya silk, Kuchai silk, Munda jewellery, and Jharkhand bamboo craft.
Legal basis	GI tag registration and protection is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Protection scope under GI tag	The GI tag authorises protection of products whose quality, reputation or characteristics are linked to a specific geographical origin.
Bhagaiya silk	Bhagaiya silk comprises a traditional hand-spun silk textile of Santhal Pargana, woven mainly by Santhal tribal women, with tribal motifs and indigenous weaving techniques.
Kuchai silk	Kuchai silk comprises silk produced in Kuchai (Saraikela-Kharsawan district) from Tasar (Tussar) silk, known for its natural golden sheen and high durability.
Munda jewellery	Munda jewellery comprises traditional jewellery of the Munda tribe, crafted mainly from silver, brass, and beads with distinctive ethnic designs reflecting tribal identity and culture.
Jharkhand bamboo craft	Jharkhand bamboo craft comprises traditional bamboo handicraft made by rural and tribal artisans using locally available bamboo, including utility and decorative products supporting sustainable livelihoods.