Srinagar, April 3, 2025 — In a landmark achievement for Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage, eight traditional crafts from the region have been granted Geographical Indication status, reinforcing their authenticity and elevating their stature in global markets. The recognition, awarded by the Geographical Indications Registry, celebrates the unparalleled artistry of Kashmir’s artisans and aims to protect these crafts from imitation while promoting economic growth.
The crafts honored with GI tags include Kashmiri Pashmina, Kani shawls, Sozni embroidery, Kashmir hand-knotted carpets, Papier Mâché, Khatamband woodwork, Walnut wood carving, and Kashmir saffron. Each craft, deeply rooted in the valley’s history, reflects centuries-old techniques passed down through generations, blending skill, creativity, and cultural significance.
Kashmiri Pashmina, renowned for its unmatched softness and warmth, is crafted from the fine wool of Changthangi goats, primarily in Ladakh and Kashmir. Kani shawls, woven with intricate patterns using small wooden sticks, are a testament to the weaver’s precision and patience. Sozni embroidery, with its delicate needlework, adorns shawls and garments with vibrant floral motifs, while Kashmir’s hand-knotted carpets, celebrated for their durability and artistry, grace homes worldwide.
Papier Mâché, characterized by its colorful hand-painted designs, transforms everyday objects into works of art. Khatamband, a unique form of ceiling woodwork, showcases geometric patterns that adorn traditional Kashmiri homes and mosques. Walnut wood carving, using the region’s rich walnut timber, produces intricately designed furniture and decor. Kashmir saffron, grown in the highlands of Pulwama and Budgam, is prized for its deep red stigmas, intense aroma, and chemical-free cultivation.
The GI status ensures that only products crafted in their designated regions using authentic methods can bear these prestigious labels, safeguarding artisans from counterfeit goods. This recognition follows recent efforts to combat imitation, including the introduction of a new GI logo for Kashmir carpets to distinguish hand-knotted originals from machine-made fakes.
Local artisans and officials hailed the milestone as a game-changer for Kashmir’s craft economy. The GI tags are expected to enhance market value, attract international buyers, and create new opportunities for artisans, many of whom rely on these crafts for their livelihoods. The Jammu and Kashmir government, in collaboration with initiatives like the World Crafts Council, is also promoting these crafts through e-commerce platforms and global exhibitions to reach wider audiences.
The achievement underscores Kashmir’s status as a hub of artistic excellence, recently recognised as a World Craft City. As demand for authentic handmade goods grows, these GI tags position Kashmir’s crafts to shine on the global stage, preserving tradition while driving economic empowerment for local communities.