Assam's Four Indigenous Products Receive Geographical Indication (GI) Tags

Four traditional products of Assam—Karbi Anglong Handloom Products, Assam BihPepa, Assam Bamboo Craft, and Deuri Handloom Products—have been granted the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. The recognition highlights Assam's rich cultural heritage, indigenous craftsmanship, and traditional knowledge systems. The GI registration process was facilitated with support from NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development).

The GI tags are expected to strengthen the market identity of these products, protect them from imitation, and enhance livelihood opportunities for artisans, weavers, and tribal communities associated with their production.

Products Granted GI Tag

Karbi Anglong Handloom Products

These handloom products originate from the Karbi Anglong region of Assam and reflect the traditional weaving skills of the Karbi tribal community. The products are known for their distinctive motifs, vibrant colours, and cultural significance.

Assam BihPepa

The Pepa is a traditional wind musical instrument made primarily from buffalo horn and is closely associated with the Bihfestival of Assam. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of Assamese folk music and cultural identity.

Assam Bamboo Craft

Assam Bamboo Craft showcases the traditional skills of artisans who use locally available bamboo to create utility and decorative items. The craft promotes sustainable livelihoods and eco-friendly production practices.

Deuri Handloom Products

These handloom products are woven by the Deuri community, one of Assam's indigenous tribes. The textiles are known for their unique designs, traditional weaving techniques, and cultural importance.

Assam and GI Tags

Assam has emerged as one of the leading states in GI registrations, with products from handloom, handicrafts, agriculture, food items, and traditional musical instruments receiving recognition. By 2026, Assam had approximately 37 GI-tagged products.

Major GI-Tagged Products of Assam

Gamosa of Assam (2022)

Muga Silk of Assam (2007)

Assam Jaapi

Majuli Mask (Mukha Shilpa)

Majuli Manuscript Painting

Bodo Dokhona

Bodo Eri Silk

Joha Rice of Assam

Kaji Nemu

Judima Rice Wine

About BihFestival

The most important cultural festival of Assam.

Celebrated in three forms:

Rongali (Bohag) Bihu

Kongali (Kati) Bihu

Bhogali (Magh) Bihu

Recognized for traditional dance, music, and folk instruments such as Pepa and Dhol.

About NABARD

Established: 1982

Headquarters: Mumbai

Chairman: Shaji K V

Apex development financial institution for agriculture and rural development.

Promotes rural enterprises, handicrafts, handlooms, and GI registration initiatives.

Exam Focus Points (Quick Revision Notes)

State in News → Assam

Newly GI-Tagged Products → Karbi Anglong Handloom Products, Assam BihPepa, Assam Bamboo Craft, Deuri Handloom Products

Supporting Institution → NABARD

Traditional Instrument → BihPepa

Related Festival → Bihu

GI Registry → Chennai

Relevant Law → GI Act, 1999

Major Existing GI Product → Muga Silk

Cultural Symbol of Assam → Gamosa

Objective of GI Tag → Protection of Regional Identity and Traditional Knowledge