Himachal’s Heritage enters Global Intellectual property map as three traditional products secure GI status
Himachal’s Heritage enters Global Intellectual property map as three traditional products secure GI status
Shimla, June 15,
Three traditional products from Himachal Pradesh have secured Geographical Indication (GI) registration, bringing the state’s centuries-old craftsmanship and cultural traditions under a globally recognised intellectual property framework that protects unique regional products from imitation and commercial misuse.
The newly registered products — Himachal Ransingha, Himachal Wood Carving Craft and Himachal Handmade Galecha — join the growing list of Indian heritage products that can now be marketed with legally protected geographical identities in national and international markets.
The registration, facilitated by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), is expected to strengthen the commercial value of these products while safeguarding traditional knowledge systems that have survived for generations in the Himalayan region.
The significance of the GI tag extends beyond legal protection. Across the world, products such as Champagne in France, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese in Italy and Darjeeling Tea in India have demonstrated how geographical branding can transform local traditions into globally recognised economic assets. Experts believe Himachal’s latest GI registrations could similarly help position the state’s traditional crafts and cultural products in niche domestic and international markets.
Among the newly protected products, the Himachal Ransingha represents one of the state’s oldest living musical traditions. The curved wind instrument continues to be used during religious ceremonies, temple processions and cultural events across the hills. Himachal Wood Carving Craft reflects architectural and artistic traditions visible in ancient temples and heritage structures, while Himachal Handmade Galecha showcases the weaving skills that continue to support artisan families in several parts of the state.
The registrations come at a time when traditional crafts across India face growing challenges from machine-made replicas and mass-produced imitations. The GI status gives legal recognition to authentic products originating from Himachal Pradesh and helps consumers distinguish genuine handmade products from copies.
Officials associated with the initiative said the registrations are expected to create opportunities for branding, market expansion, value addition and higher returns for artisan communities. The move could also support heritage tourism and strengthen efforts to preserve traditional skills that are increasingly under pressure from changing consumer preferences and migration away from craft-based occupations.
Also read:After Chamba Rumal, Chamba Chappal & Lahauli Knitted Socks & Gloves get GI Tag
Dr. Vivek Pathania, Chief General Manager, NABARD Himachal Pradesh Regional Office, said the registrations represent an important step towards preserving Himachal Pradesh’s cultural identity while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans and producer groups. He said NABARD would continue supporting post-registration activities including branding, capacity building, market linkages and awareness generation.
The recognition places three more Himachali traditions on India’s protected heritage register and underscores the growing importance of intellectual property rights in safeguarding cultural assets. For Himachal Pradesh, the registrations are not merely about protecting products; they are about preserving identities, sustaining livelihoods and ensuring that traditional Himalayan craftsmanship remains visible in an increasingly globalised marketplace.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
