NEWS – GI TAG ACCORDED TO KUTCH AJRAKH

KUTCH AJRAKH

• Origin and Legacy:
  • Rooted in Gujarat’s cultural heritage, particularly in Sindh, Barmer, and Kutch.
  • Reflects centuries-old craftsmanship, showcasing a rich cultural tapestry.
• Craftsmanship:
  • Involves intricate hand-block printing on treated cotton fabric.
  • Designs carry deep symbolism and historical significance.
• Meaning of Ajrakh: Derived from ‘Azrak,’ meaning indigo, a key dye for its blue hue.
• Symbolism: Ajrakh prints include blue (sky), red (land/fire), and white (stars) colors.
• Production Process: Fabrics treated with natural colors, undergo multiple wash cycles for durability and richness.
• Historical Introduction: Introduced 400 years ago by Sind Muslims, enriching the region’s textile heritage.
• Usage: Worn by nomadic pastoralists like Rabaris, Maldharis, and Ahirs as turbans, lungis, or stoles, signifying cultural identity and tradition.

GI TAG

• Primarily an agricultural, natural or a manufactured product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from a definite geographical territory
• Once the GI protection is granted, no other producer can misuse the name to market similar products. It also provides comfort to customers about the authenticity of that product
• Any association of persons, producers, organisation or authority established by or under the law can be a registered proprietor.
• Their name should be entered in the Registrar of Geographical Indication as registered proprietor for the Geographical Indication applied for
• The registration of a geographical indication is valid for a period of 10 years.
• It can be renewed from time to time for further period of 10 years each.
• In India, Geographical Indications registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 which came into force with effect from September 2003
• The first product in India to be accorded with GI tag was Darjeeling tea in the year 2004-05