Preserving Assam’s Legacy Through Geographical Indications

Mowsam Hazarika

(mowsam2000@yahoo.co.in)

Assam, a land steeped in rich tradition, artistic excellence, and agricultural abundance,  is making significant strides in safeguarding its cultural and economic heritage through Geographical Indication (GI) tags. These tags legally link products to their region of origin, offering protection against imitation and ensuring that artisans, farmers, and producers benefit from better market recognition and economic opportunities.

With a diverse range of crafts, textiles, and agricultural goods unique to the region, Assam’s pursuit of GI recognition plays a pivotal role in preserving its identity while also boosting exports, tourism, and economic sustainability.

• Understanding Geographical Indications and Their Impact

A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a special status granted to products that have distinct characteristics linked to a particular region. In India, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, governs this system, ensuring that only authorized producers from a specific location can use the registered name. The first GI tag in India was awarded to Darjeeling Tea in 2003, paving the way for other regional products to gain recognition and protection.

For Assam, obtaining GI tags is not just about preserving authenticity—it is also about securing economic benefits for local communities. A GI-tagged product gains exclusive branding rights, making it more attractive in national and international markets. This, in turn, helps traditional artisans, weavers, and farmers receive fair compensation for their work while protecting them from unfair competition and counterfeit goods.

• Cultural Heritage:

Assam’s GI-Tagged Crafts,

Textiles, and Art Forms

Assam’s rich artistic and craft traditions have been passed down through generations, reflecting the state’s history, mythology, and indigenous knowledge. Over the years, several of these treasures have received GI recognition, ensuring they remain protected from imitation.

1. Assamese Jewellery

Handcrafted with precision, Assamese jewellery is renowned for its intricate gold and silver designs inspired by nature. Popular designs include the Loka Paro, Dugdugi, and Gam Kharu, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Assamese people. With the GI tag, this traditional craft is protected from mass-market imitations and allows artisans to retain their craftsmanship’s exclusivity.

2. Bihu Dhol

An integral part of Bihu celebrations, the Assamese dhol is a traditional percussion instrument used in festivals and folk performances. Made from wood and animal hide, this drum produces a rhythmic beat that energizes Bihu dances. Its GI recognition ensures that its unique manufacturing process remains intact and continues to thrive.

3. Assamese Jaapi

The Jaapi—a traditional conical hat made from bamboo and palm leaves—is a symbol of Assamese hospitality and cultural pride. Worn by farmers as protection from the sun and used ceremonially to honor dignitaries, its GI tag safeguards its authenticity against machine-made replicas.

4. Sarthebari Metal Craft

Known for its exquisite brass and bell-metal craftsmanship, Sarthebari’s metalwork includes utensils, lamps, and decorative items. This craft has been an integral part of Assam’s heritage for centuries, with artisans using age-old techniques to shape molten metal into stunning pieces. The GI status not only secures the craft’s legacy but also enhances its commercial appeal.

5. Asharikandi Terracotta Craft

The terracotta craft of Asharikandi village, famous for its intricate clay figurines and pottery, represents Assam’s deep-rooted artistic traditions. The GI tag provides much-needed protection to artisans who rely on this craft for their livelihood.

6. Pani Meteka Craft

Derived from water hyacinth, Pani Meteka crafts are eco-friendly and sustainable. From handbags to home décor, these products showcase Assam’s commitment to environmental consciousness. The GI recognition has increased the market demand for these handicrafts, promoting sustainable livelihoods for artisans.

7. Mising Handloom Textiles & Gamosa of Assam

The Mising handloom tradition is known for its intricately woven textiles, featuring vibrant colours and geometric motifs. Meanwhile, the Gamosa, a white hand-woven towel with red motifs, is a symbol of Assamese identity. Both have received GI protection, preventing mass-market imitations and ensuring that weavers receive fair recognition for their skill.

8. Majuli’s Mukha Shilpa & Manuscript Paintings

Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is known for its Vaishnavite cultural heritage. Its mask-making tradition (Mukha Shilpa) and ancient manuscript paintings have been granted GI tags, preserving these age-old artistic expressions.

9. Bodo Cultural Contributions

The Bodo community has played a vital role in Assam’s textile and musical heritage. The Dokhona attire, Eri silk, and traditional musical instruments like the Bodo Kham, Serja, and Sifung have all received GI recognition, ensuring that these cultural elements remain protected and promoted.

• Agricultural Wealth: Assam’s GI-Tagged Crops and Produce

Assam’s fertile soil and favourable climate support a range of unique agricultural products, many of which have gained GI status due to their distinctive quality and origin.

1. Assam Tea

One of the most famous GI-tagged products, Assam Tea is known worldwide for its bold flavour and deep colour. The GI status ensures that only tea grown in Assam can carry the name, preventing inferior substitutes from misusing the brand.

2. Karbi Anglong Ginger & Tezpur Litchi

Known for its pungent aroma and superior quality, Karbi Anglong Ginger is widely used in culinary and medicinal applications. Similarly, Tezpur Litchi, with its exceptional sweetness, has gained national recognition thanks to its GI status.

3. Joha Rice & Boka Chaul

Assam’s fragrant Joha rice and the unique Boka Chaul (soft rice) are integral to Assamese cuisine. Their GI certification ensures that farmers receive fair compensation while maintaining traditional rice-farming practices.

4. Kaji Nemu (Assam Lemon)

Larger, juicier, and more aromatic than regular lemons, Kaji Nemu is widely used in Assamese cuisine. The GI tag has boosted demand for this citrus fruit, benefiting farmers and exporters alike.

5. Judima (Dimasa Rice Wine)

Judima, the traditional rice wine of the Dimasa community, is the first alcoholic beverage from the Northeast to receive a GI tag. This recognition ensures that its unique fermentation process is protected.

• Economic and Cultural Significance of GI Recognition

1. Protecting Indigenous Knowledge

GI status helps preserve centuries-old traditions, ensuring that artisans and farmers continue to pass down their skills to future generations.

2. Economic Growth & Fair Market Prices

With exclusive branding rights, GI-tagged products fetch better market prices, improving the livelihoods of those involved in their production.

3. Boosting Tourism & Global Recognition

GI tags increase global awareness of Assam’s unique heritage, attracting tourists and expanding export markets.

Conclusion:

The expanding list of GI-tagged products in Assam highlights a dedicated effort to protect, promote, and sustain the state’s rich cultural and agricultural legacy. By securing these valuable assets, Assam is ensuring that its traditions continue to thrive in a rapidly modernizing world.

Through innovation, preservation, and strategic promotion, Assam’s authentic products are now gaining the global recognition they deserve—a testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to its heritage and future prosperity. n