Arunachal Pradesh, the 'Land of Dawn-lit Mountains', rich in biodiversity and cultural diversity, longed to be discovered in order to reveal its unique culture and unmatched natural splendour. The pristine region was always ripe to become an absolute gold mine of natural and cultural treasures, just waiting for the keen eye of people who cherish and protect authenticity to notice it and conserve it.

In a significantly recent development, twelve remarkable products hailing from Arunachal Pradesh proudly earned the esteemed Geographical Indication (GI) tags, marking a milestone in the recognition and protection of their distinctive qualities. These twelve representations of Arunachal Pradesh items, with their GI tags, have been internationally and nationally recognised for their outstanding quality, cultural mastery, and indigenous value. Let's examine these products' specifics and see why they merit such esteemed recognition.

TEXTILES:

Textiles hold a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of regions, and Arunachal Pradesh is no exception. The unique textiles of six tribes in the region; Apatani, Adi, Galo, Monpa, Nyishi, and Tai Khamti - have been honoured with GI tags, ensuring the protection of their traditional weaving techniques, patterns, and values passed down through generations.

Every tribe has a different traditional essence and elements, like the textiles from Apatani, which are known for their vibrant hues and geometric patterns. The tribes, Adi and Nyishi, are distinguished by their unique patterns and bright shades that are a reflection of their rich cultural past. The gorgeous textures and naturalistic designs of Monpa textiles also set them apart. Tai Khamti is renowned for its vivid colours and elaborate designs. Last but not least, the textiles crafted by the Galo tribe are known for their exquisite patterns and striking colours, contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage.

PRODUCTS:

Beyond textiles, six distinctive Arunachal Pradesh products, including Adi Apong, local Dao (sword), Angnyat Millet, Monpa Handmade Paper, Singpho Tea, and Marua Apo, have received GI tags, underscoring their cultural and economic importance.

Adi Apo, a traditional rice beer brewed by the Adi community, has been recognized for its unique flavour and brewing techniques. Another traditional item, the Dao or Sword, made by the local community, has been granted the GI tag. This ancient weapon, which holds immense cultural and historical significance, is crafted with precision and skill. Angnyat Millet (Job’s Tears or Adlay Millet), which is grown and cultivated by the tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh, is renowned for its nutritional value and resilience to adverse weather conditions. Monpa Handmade Paper, made using age-old traditional techniques by the Monpa community, has been recognized for its durability and eco-friendly properties. Singpho Phalap, known as Singpho Tea, is a fragrant and refreshing tea produced by the Singpho tribe. Marua Apo, a traditional millet-based alcoholic beverage, has also received the GI tag for its unique taste and cultural significance.

IMPORTANCE OF GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION:

A product bearing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag is one that identifies it as being from a certain place and is known for its attributes. It is a type of intellectual property protection that acknowledges the special ability of a certain area to produce particular goods. The GI tags offer opportunities for branding and marketing while upholding and promoting a region's unique cultural customs, traditional expertise, and craftsmanship.

The twelve Arunachali goods that receive the GI tags highlight the region's rich cultural diversity and traditional beliefs. These tags not only protect cultural assets but also create income and promote tourism and sustainable development in this undiscovered haven. It also emphasises Arunachal Pradesh's potential as a tourist destination, blending unexplored beauty with vibrant cultural traditions and unique products. Positioned as a hub of cultural tourism, the tags invite global exploration and appreciation of the region's hidden gems.

The robust support provided by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) played a pivotal role in this achievement, reflecting a collaborative effort to celebrate and preserve the cultural and economic heritage of the region. Today, eighteen products in all, supported by NABARD's backing, made it through the challenging process and obtained the state's GI registration. Every product took the seal of authenticity and quality, demonstrating the dedication to maintaining Arunachal Pradesh's distinct identity and traditional craftsmanship.

In conclusion, the recent grant of Geographical Indication tags to twelve Arunachal Pradesh products marks a significant milestone for local communities and cultural preservation. Supporting and appreciating these unique products is essential for the prosperity of local communities and the enduring preservation of Arunachal Pradesh's cultural diversity for generations to come. As more unique goods are identified by GI tags, Arunachal Pradesh may witness a thriving economy built on its rich cultural heritage and ecology.