Srinagar, Feb 7: In a significant move to protect the authenticity of Kashmir’s traditional crafts and enhance brand recognition, the Geographical Indications (GI) Registry, Chennai, has assigned a new logo for the Kashmir Hand-Knotted Carpet under its GI certification process.
A GI logo is a mark used on products that originate from a specific geographical location and are known for their unique quality and reputation tied to that region.
New GI Logo to Ensure Exclusivity
In a press release, Director of the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Nowshera, Srinagar, Zubair Ahmad, announced that a fresh registration certificate featuring the new logo has been issued by the Registrar of Geographical Indications.
“The new logo will be widely promoted to safeguard the exclusivity of Kashmir’s hand-knotted carpets and assure buyers that they are purchasing authentic handmade carpets,” he stated.
Expanding GI Protection for Kashmir Crafts
Kashmir’s crafts hold a prestigious reputation in global markets, and efforts are underway to secure GI registration for all traditional handicrafts.
Alongside hand-knotted carpets, six other Kashmir crafts have already received GI certification, including:
- Papier Mache
- Kashmir Pashmina
- Kani Weaving
- Sozni Embroidery
- Khatamband Woodwork
- Walnut Wood Carving
This new initiative aims to protect the heritage of Kashmiri craftsmanship and provide buyers with authentic, high-quality handmade products.