In a significant step towards preserving and promoting Gujarat’s unique cultural and agricultural identity, a Regional Geographical Indication (GI) Facilitation Centre was inaugurated on Monday at the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Gandhinagar. The centre has been established with the support of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The centre was formally inaugurated by Mr. Shaji K V, Chairman of NABARD and a governing board member of EDII.
Preserving Heritage and Expanding Global Reach
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General of EDII, highlighted the significance of the centre in promoting India’s rich heritage. He said, “The GI facilitation centre is a huge step forward towards preserving India’s heritage, age-old agro products, and crafts. This will unlock multiple benefits for artisans and entrepreneurs, including their reach to global markets.”
Dr. Shukla emphasized EDII’s commitment to helping artisans with branding, packaging, and market outreach, thus creating more avenues for income generation and economic self-sufficiency.
12 Gujarat Products in Final Stages of GI Recognition
Centre officials shared that 12 traditional crafts and agricultural products from Gujarat are in the advanced stages of obtaining GI (Geographical Indication) tags. These include:
- Patari Craft from Jasdan
- Beadwork of Dahod
- Kars of Khambhat
- Dhabla and Shawl from Saurashtra
- Dabu Block Printing from Deesa
- Mud Mirror Work from Kutch
- Kodan from Dang
- White Rag from Dang
- Varal from Dang
- Cow Ghee from Gir
- Bamboo Mat Weaving from Dadra & Nagar Haveli
- Seashell Craft from Diu & Daman
These products reflect the diverse traditional knowledge and artisanal skills of Gujarat’s communities, and GI tagging is expected to provide them with legal protection and improved market visibility.
Past GI Successes Led by EDII
EDII has already secured GI tags for several Gujarat-based crafts, including:
- Ahmedabad Saudagari Block Print
- Surat Sadeli Marquetry Craft
- Kutch Soof Embroidery
- Bharuch Sujani Weaving
The institute has played a pioneering role in facilitating GI applications, documentation, and awareness among rural artisans and producer groups across Gujarat.
Strategic Development Through GI Facilitation
The centre will act as a one-stop support system for GI applicants, offering services like:
- Product documentation
- Legal support for registration
- Capacity building and training
- Branding and packaging assistance
- Marketing and e-commerce support
By empowering local producers, the centre aligns with national goals such as “Vocal for Local”, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Make in India, while also creating sustainable livelihoods in rural and tribal areas.
