NABARD Facilitates GI Registration for 28 Products

On 10 July 2026, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development facilitated Geographical Indication registration for 28 new products from across India. With these additions, the number of GI products supported by NABARD reached 176.

Geographical Indication in Indian law

A Geographical Indication is a sign used on goods that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to that origin. In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, and the registration is administered by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks.

Types of products covered under GI

The 28 newly registered products include traditional handicrafts, handloom textiles, bamboo crafts, metalwork, pottery, paintings, and musical instruments. GI protection is commonly used for agricultural products, manufactured goods, handicrafts, and food items that are associated with a defined place and traditional production method.

Examples of newly registered products

Examples of the new GI-registered products include Nalanda Bawanbuti Saree and Fabrics and Gaya Pattharkatti Stone Craft from Bihar, Kuchai Silk Saree and Fabrics from Jharkhand, Ba Shilp, also known as Bamboo Craft, and Bihu Pepa from Assam, Himachal Wood Carving Craft, and Khajuraho Metal Craft from Madhya Pradesh.

Important Facts for Exams

• NABARD stands for the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, and it was established in 1982.
• India’s GI law is the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
• GI registration in India is linked to products whose quality or reputation is associated with a specific place.
• GI products in India include handicrafts, agricultural goods, manufactured goods, and food products.

GI ecosystem support and rural economy

NABARD has supported the GI ecosystem through GI Facilitation Centres at EDII Ahmedabad, Bihar Agricultural University, and MABIF Tamil Nadu. It also operates a dedicated GI Store at Aihole in Karnataka. GI-led initiatives by NABARD have connected over 13,000 artisans and producers with higher-value domestic markets and generated more than 50,000 direct jobs through associated value chains and enterprises. Dr. Shaji Krishnan V. is the Chairman of NABARD.