SRINAGAR: In a major recognition of Ladakh’s rich artisanal heritage, eight traditional handicraft products from the Union Territory have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status, providing legal protection to centuries-old crafts and strengthening their identity in national and international markets.
The newly registered GI-tagged products are Ladakh Challi Textiles, Ladakh Thigma, Ladakh Painting, Pabu of Ladakh, Ladakh Nambu Textile, Ladakh Pashmina Textile, Ladakh Chilling Metal Work and Ladakh Likir Pottery.
The latest registrations mark a significant expansion of Ladakh’s GI portfolio and are expected to play a key role in preserving indigenous knowledge, protecting traditional craftsmanship from imitation and enhancing market opportunities for local artisans.
A GI tag is a form of intellectual property protection granted to products that possess qualities, reputation or characteristics linked to a specific geographical region. The certification helps safeguard the authenticity of traditional products while enabling producers to distinguish their goods in competitive markets.
The eight newly recognised products reflect the diversity of Ladakh’s cultural traditions, ranging from textiles and paintings to metalwork and pottery. The GI status is expected to improve visibility for these crafts, strengthen consumer confidence in authentic Ladakhi products and create greater economic opportunities for artisan communities.
Officials said the recognition would help preserve traditional skills that have been passed down through generations while encouraging sustainable livelihoods linked to heritage-based industries.
Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena described the recognition as a tribute to Ladakh’s centuries-old craftsmanship and cultural legacy.
“The conferment of GI status on these eight traditional Ladakhi products is a matter of immense pride for the people of Ladakh. These recognitions are not merely certifications; they are a tribute to the centuries-old craftsmanship, artistry and cultural heritage of our people,” he said.
With the latest additions, Ladakh continues to strengthen its presence on India’s GI map. Earlier, Raktsey Karpo Apricot, Ladakh Pashmina and Shing-Tsak had received GI recognition, highlighting the distinctiveness of the region’s agricultural and artisanal products.
The addition of eight new GI-tagged handicrafts is expected to further boost efforts to preserve Ladakh’s cultural heritage while providing artisans greater protection, recognition and access to wider markets.
