Odisha to push for GI tag for nine handloom products

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government has decided to apply for Geographical Indication (GI) tags for nine handloom products in state.
Many handicraft products from Odisha have already received GI tags, enhancing the state’s prestige and the government has now planned to apply for GI tags for nine handicraft products in 2025-26,” chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi said inaugurating the 19th Toshali National Handicrafts Mela at Janata Maidan here on Wednesday.
Majhi said handicrafts and handlooms are the backbone of rural economy in which women particularly self-help groups play a significant role. The collective efforts of women and their achievements are in display at the mela, he added.
He further informed that 550 artisans would be covered under the workshed construction scheme. Furthermore, 100 artisans will receive bank finance and margin money to set up their own production units.
“This apart, Kantilo, Pipili, Balijor, Hirakud, Cuttack and Kotpad will be developed as heritage craft villages. This move aims to integrate tourism with handicrafts and create additional infrastructure to support the growth of these industries,” the CM said.