The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC), will organize the “GI & Beyond-2024” summit on November 25, 2024, at The Oberoi, New Delhi. This one-day event will highlight India’s Geographical Indication (GI) handloom and handicraft products, aiming to promote these unique Indian textiles on the global stage.
The summit’s goal is to enhance the brand visibility of GI handloom and handicraft products among a wide range of stakeholders, including overseas buyers, exporters, and multinational corporations (MNCs).
The Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles will inaugurate the event, with the Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles serving as the guest of honor. Other prominent figures, such as the Secretary (Textiles), Development Commissioner for Handlooms, and officials from the Development Commissioner for Handicrafts, Textile Commissioner, and the Controller General of Patents, Trademarks & GI, will also attend.
Key Highlights of the Event:
- Participants:
- 30 overseas buyers
- 80 exporters and MNCs
- 70 GI-authorized users
- 80 officials from various government departments
- Handing Over of GI Certificates:
- During the inaugural ceremony, 10 new GI certificates will be presented to GI applicants by the Union Minister of Textiles.
- Thematic Display:
- The summit will feature a thematic display of GI-tagged handloom and handicraft products. Participants, including GI holders and authorized users, will showcase the unique craftsmanship and heritage of India’s artisanal techniques.
- Technical Sessions:
- The summit will host informative sessions on:
- Procedural aspects of ensuring quality and traceability of products
- GI initiatives for brand promotion and creating sustainable market linkages
- Linking GI-tagged products to global export markets
- The summit will host informative sessions on:
The “GI & Beyond 2024” summit will bring together weavers, businesses, policymakers, and consumers to foster a global identity for India as a leader in sustainable and artisanal textiles. The event will bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern business practices, ensuring that India’s handloom sector thrives globally.
Significance of the GI System: Geographical Indication (GI) tags play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development in India. By recognizing and protecting traditional knowledge and local resources, the GI system empowers local communities and encourages the preservation of cultural heritage. Enacted under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999, the GI system safeguards producers’ interests and enhances marketability, ensuring that products with specific geographic origins and unique qualities are protected.
India’s rich diversity is reflected in its GI products, which represent a deep connection to the country’s regional cultures, traditions, and skills. The “GI & Beyond 2024” summit will serve as a key platform for showcasing this rich heritage to a global audience.
