Why in News?
Eight traditional products of Himachal Pradesh were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status on July 1, 2026, taking the state's total GI-registered products to 17.
Key Points
- The newly registered products are: Seabuckthorn (Chharma) from Spiti; Salooni Safed Makka (white maize) and Chamba Metal Art from Chamba; Sirmauri Loiya (woollen gown) from Sirmaur; Kinnauri Topi, Kinnauri Apple, and Kinnauri Jewellery from Kinnaur; and Sepuvadi (lentil dish) from Mandi.
- The registration was facilitated by the Himachal Pradesh State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE).
- GI tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.
Exam Connect
- GI → Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 → GI Registry under Ministry of Commerce and Industry → Darjeeling Tea first Indian GI (2004–05)
- HIMCOSTE → nodal agency for GI registration in Himachal Pradesh → works under the Department of Environment, Science & Technology, Government of Himachal Pradesh