Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has long been a vocal advocate for India’s homegrown goods, putting domestic talent at the core of the country’s progress. His “Vocal for Local” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” campaigns have shone a light on artisans and farmers from every corner of the nation.
To back this goal, the Prime Minister has highlighted Geographical Indication (GI) products in his radio address Mann Ki Baat and has taken the time to personally honor craftsmen who keep traditional techniques alive.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is pushing an ambitious target: 10,000 GI‑tagged items across the country by 2030, under the slogan “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi.”
Gujarat has stepped up to support this national drive, showcasing its rich craft heritage—from the renowned creations of Kutch to the premium agricultural goods of Saurashtra—on international stages.
GI labeling has become a cornerstone of the state’s “Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat” agenda, uplifting local expertise to compete globally. Kutch and Saurashtra together boast GI status for more than ten celebrated products, including Ajrakh block printing, Bandhani tie‑dye, Rogan art, Kutch shawls, the iconic Kachchhi Kharek date, and the well‑known Gir Kesar mango.
The forthcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) in Rajkot will spotlight regional craftsmanship and export potential, giving artisans a powerful platform to grow their businesses.
Kutch is famed for its GI‑registered embroidery, Ajrakh printing, Bandhani, Rogan painting, and the quintessential Kutch shawl. In the agriculture domain, Kachchhi Kharek—celebrated for its flavor and nutrition—has also earned GI recognition.
Saurashtra’s standout products include the legendary Gir Kesar mango, often called the “Queen of Mangoes,” the celebrated Jamnagari Bandhani, and the exquisite Rajkot Patola silk weaving tradition that Bollywood stars adore.
Surendranagar’s Tangaliya shawl, known for its intricate weaving, has garnered a loyal global clientele. The upcoming VGRC for Saurashtra and Kutch aims to accelerate the region’s artisan economy.
Held over two days, the conference will unite entrepreneurs, artisans, interior designers, and product designers, fostering collaborations with the Government e‑Marketplace, private firms, investors, and top e‑commerce platforms. The event promises to boost innovation, widen market access, and stimulate sustainable growth for traditional craft clusters.
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