Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025: Showcasing heritage, craft, and economic growth

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 1, 2025

Arunachal Pradesh marked a historic moment with the launch of its first-ever Geographical Indication (GI) Mahotsav at Select City Walk, Saket, in the national capital. The event, graced by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, served as a powerful platform to promote the state’s craft, cuisine, and culture while reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding indigenous products and traditions.

As the chief patron and driving force behind the festival, Mein emphasized the significance of GI tagging in protecting region-specific products that define Arunachal Pradesh’s rich heritage. He highlighted that GI registration is not just about recognition but a crucial step toward economic empowerment, legal protection, and cultural preservation.

“With 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, Arunachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of biodiversity and craftsmanship. Our handwoven textiles, arts, and crafts, agricultural produce, and culinary traditions are unique to our land. Through GI registration, we aim to ensure their protection, foster economic growth, and strengthen the identity of our people,” Mein stated in his keynote address.

Mein traced the state’s GI journey, which began in 2014 with the registration of Arunachal Orange and Idu Mishmi Textiles & Handicrafts. This was followed by applications for Adi Kekir (local ginger), Khao Tai (Khamti local rice), and Monpa Maize (high-altitude maize) in 2016.

The year 2024 marked a milestone with the registration of 18 new GI products, bringing the state’s total to 20, including India’s first GI-recognized handmade paper and millet-based wine, Marua Apo.

Mein acknowledged the tireless efforts of NABARD and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Rajnikant, who have been instrumental in pushing for 24 more products currently in the pipeline. The state now aims to achieve 50+ GI registrations by 2029, ensuring sustainable development and a thriving heritage economy.

The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 also reinforced the Vocal for Local movement by showcasing the state’s traditional textiles, indigenous agricultural produce, and craftsmanship, creating economic opportunities for local artisans and farmers.

The event also promoted tourism, with Mein inviting people from across India to visit Arunachal Pradesh and experience its Himalayan beauty and cultural richness.

A key highlight of the festival was the launch of its theme song, “Symphony of Arunachal”, accompanied by a mesmerizing cultural performance by Tani Daughters. The opening day also featured a performance by renowned singer, music composer, and songwriter, Taba Chake, adding a musical touch to the celebration.

The event was attended by Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan, who was the Chief Guest, along with Union Minister for Parliamentary & Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Tourism Minister P.D. Sona, Agriculture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu, MP Tapir Gao, Nagaland MP Phangnon Konyak, Assam MP Amarsing Tisso, Padma Shri Dr. Rajnikant, Arunachal Pradesh MLAs, Chief Secretary Manish Gupta, and other distinguished guests.

The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 stands as a landmark initiative, celebrating the state’s cultural identity, boosting its economy, and paving the way for a future rich in heritage-driven growth.