…Sponsored by NABARD

Gujarat’s century-old crafts and agro products have received a new ray of hope with the launch of the state’s first-ever Regional Geographical Indication (GI) Facilitation Centre at the Institute, with the support of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).  The centre was inaugurated on September 15, 2025, by   Shri Shaji K. V., Chairman, NABARD & EDIIGoverning Board Member, in the presence of Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII; senior officials from IDBI Bank Ltd.; artisans; entrepreneurs and GI specialists.

The Centre is mandated to empower artisans, producer groups and entrepreneurs by facilitating GI registrations and ensuring post-tagging benefits. It will serve as a knowledge and support hub for GI-related services, including awareness creation, application facilitation, producer group formation, legal support and post-tagging handholding. It will also provide training, research and policy inputs to strengthen traditional craft and agricultural ecosystem.

Geographical Indication (GI)is a mark of authenticity and quality linked to a product’s place of origin, safeguarding heritage and promoting economic growth. GI recognition provides artisans with the benefits of income enhancement; recognition & reputation and market expansion. Currently, with the support of NABARD, 12 craft & agro products are in the advanced stages of GI tagging process. These includeJasdan Patari Craft (Rajkot), Dahod Bead Work of Gujarat, Khambhat Kite of Gujarat, Saurashtra Dhabla and Shawl of Gujarat, Deesa Dabu Block Print of Gujarat, Kutchi Mud Mirror Craft, Kodari (Dang), White Raagi (Dang), Varai (Dang), Gir Cow Ghee (Gir Region), Bamboo Mat Weaving of Dadra Nagar Haveli (UT) and Sea Shell Craft of Diu and Daman (UT).