Meghalaya’s Ryndia Silk and Khasi Handloom Get GI Tag Recognition

This official recognition has been documented by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Intellectual Property Office.

The Government of India has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to Meghalaya’s Ryndia silk and Khasi handloom products, signifying a major milestone for the state’s traditional textile sector. This official recognition has been documented by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Intellectual Property Office.

Ryndia, a distinctive handwoven fabric, is hand-spun, naturally dyed, organically produced, and ethically sourced. Alongside other handloom items from Meghalaya, it now holds GI status, validating its cultural significance and traditional craftsmanship. This development is expected to boost the identity, market value, and economic potential of these indigenous products, especially benefiting the artisans and weavers who have preserved these practices for generations.

The initiative was driven by the Meghalaya Department of Textiles over a span of four years, with strategic support from NABARD and technical guidance from Dr Rajnikanth. The effort involved collaboration with the Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Association, resulting in a joint application submitted to the GI Registry.

This journey gained momentum after the recognition of Umden-Diwon as Meghalaya’s first Eri Silk Village on February 12, 2021. Since then, the state has worked consistently to promote its traditional silk and handloom heritage.

A delegation led by Principal Secretary of the Textiles Department, Frederick Roy Kharkongor, attended the final Consultative GI Group meeting held in Kolkata on November 20, 2024. The delegation included department officials, representatives from the Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Association, and local artisans from the Eri Silk Village.

The GI tag is expected to enhance the visibility of Meghalaya’s traditional textiles on national and international platforms, while ensuring the protection and promotion of indigenous knowledge and heritage.

News source: India Today NE