SHIMLA -26 August, 2026-Artisans associated with three traditional products of Himachal Pradesh- Ransingha, wood carving and handmade carpets, which have recently received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag called on Governor Kavinder Gupta today at Lok Bhavan.
The GI registration process was facilitated by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Himachal Pradesh Regional Office in collaboration with local producer groups, artisan groups and other stakeholders.
Through NABARD officials, the Governor presented GI certificates to Manish Bharti and Mahesh Bharti of Aachri foundation of Kullu,. carpet artisan Shakuntala Devi, Hira Mani of SAVM organization, Mandi, Ransingha artisan Pradeep Kumar and wood-carving artisan Krishan Lal.
Speaking on the occasion, Kavinder Gupta said that the GI tag would help protect the unique identity and authenticity of Himachal Pradesh’s traditional products, strengthen their recognition in domestic and international markets and ensure that the artisans and communities associated with these crafts receive better recognition and greater economic value for their skills.
The Governor appreciated NABARD's efforts in supporting local producer and artisan groups in securing GI recognition for traditional products. He said that such initiatives were important for preserving the State's rich cultural heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural communities and traditional artisans.
He emphasised the need to further promote Himachali products through quality improvement, branding, modern marketing, e-commerce and wider market linkages so that the rich craftsmanship of the State could reach consumers across the country and abroad.
Shri Gupta said that traditional crafts represent the cultural identity and heritage of Himachal Pradesh and called for greater efforts to pass these skills on to younger generations while making traditional craftsmanship economically viable.
Secretary to the Governor Sandeep Bhardwaj was also present on the occasion.