Ladakh’s Wood Carving

The recent granting of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Ladakh’s wood carving has brought a significant boost to the region’s cultural traditions and local economy. The GI tag has been given by the GI Registry in Chennai, which is responsible for registering products under the GI Act, 1999.

Promotion of Cultural Traditions and Benefitting Artisans

The GI tag is a type of intellectual property right that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographical location, and possessing certain qualities, characteristics, or reputation that are due to that location. Ladakh’s wood carving is famed for its complex designs and distinctive patterns, which are mostly inspired by Buddhist themes and motifs. The wood carvings are made from local wood such as willow and apricot and are often used for decorating doors, windows, and other household items.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness about the recent granting of a GI tag for Ladakh’s wood carving, stating that the move will popularize Ladakh’s cultural traditions and benefit artisans. Member of Parliament in Lok Sabha from Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, also tweeted about the granting of the GI tag.

Unique Identity and Origin of a Product

The GI registration ensures that the product has a unique identity and origin, and it cannot be duplicated or sold under the same name by any other manufacturer from a different region. This protection ensures that consumers get genuine and authentic products. The GI tag is granted based on the provisions of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, by the Geographical Indication Registry under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade.

Boosting the Local Economy

The recognition of Ladakh’s wood carving as a GI product is likely to boost the local economy by promoting tourism and creating employment opportunities for artisans. Tourists are drawn to authentic and unique products that are not available elsewhere, and the GI tag ensures that Ladakh’s wood carving fits that bill. With the recognition, artisans will be able to charge a premium price for their products, which will help in improving their livelihoods.

Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Skills

The recognition of Ladakh’s wood carving as a GI product will also protect the traditional knowledge and skills of wood carving, ensuring that it is passed down to future generations. The GI tag is an important step in preserving the cultural heritage of a region and ensuring that it continues to thrive and flourish in the future.

Month: Current Affairs – April, 2023

Category: Art & Culture Current Affairs