The Department of Handloom & Handicrafts, Leh, organised a GI User Certification Awareness Camp on August 28 at the Handloom Leh Office Complex under the leadership of Director, Industries & Commerce, Sonam Nurboo, JKAS. The camp was held in the presence of the Assistant Director, Handicrafts & Handlooms, Leh.

The Authorised User registration drive for GI-tagged products of Ladakh, particularly Ladakh Pashmina, was initiated a few days ago to facilitate local artisans, producers, entrepreneurs, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and cooperatives in obtaining GI User Certification.

During the camp, more than 20 artisans and producers participated and were assisted in filling out and submitting their applications and completing the requisite documentation for onward submission to the GI Registry. Applicants who had already initiated the registration process were also provided assistance in verifying and completing pending documents.

The initiative aims to facilitate wider registration of local producers and artisans as Authorised Users, strengthen the GI ecosystem in Ladakh, and promote the authenticity, traceability and market recognition of GI-tagged products.

Director Industries & Commerce Sonam Nurboo interacted with the participants and officials of the Department. He emphasised the importance of delivering services efficiently to artisans and producers and directed officials to work with utmost dedication, professionalism and commitment towards facilitating the GI registration process and strengthening support for the local handicrafts and handloom sector.

The Department will continue to organise awareness and facilitation activities to encourage more artisans, producers, SHGs and cooperatives associated with GI-tagged products to avail themselves of the benefits of Authorised User registration.