To ensure protection in the domestic and global markets, organisations have applied for a geographical indicator (GI) tag for eight different traditional items from various districts of the Jammu region, according to officials. This was revealed at a round table meeting — A way forward for GIs of Jammu and Kashmir — at the University of Jammu for assessing the distinctiveness of the Union territory’s native and traditional items.
The organisation have applied for GI tags of 8 different products, including Chikri wood products of the Thanamandi belt of the Rajouri district, Sulai Honey of the Ramban district, Kalari of the Udhampur district, Anardana of the Ramban district, Gucchi of the Doda district, Rajmash of Bhadarwah and Pashmina of Bhaderwah.
“We have got 8 applications for GI-tagging of some products from the Jammu region. We will be reviewing them. Our aim is to meet local artisans, local cultivators and farmers (who make these products)… We will be educated on it closely,” controller general of patents, designs and trademarks, department of promotion of industry and internal Trade (DPIIT) Prof Unnat Pandit said.
He further said that another aim was to hold a round table meeting to do brainstorming sessions on the products, which can be GI-tagged and how can we make universities partners in the GI-tagging campaign.
Pandit in his inaugural address focused on the significance of entrepreneurship in India and the expanding role of mentors towards creating an entrepreneurial environment.
He emphasised the need for training and empowering the faculty towards mentoring and creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Pandit further said that experiential learning can offer useful insights to the youth of the nation and create a roadmap for them to explore several entrepreneurial opportunities and tap their potential.
He appreciated the efforts and initiatives undertaken by UOJSPVF, University of Jammu, towards promoting an entrepreneurial culture in the region.
Amit Khajuria, Assistant handicraft officer, is batting strongly for GI-tagging of Chikri wood products produced in the Thanamandi belt of the Rajouri district.
Similarly, Rahul Rathore of Ramban has showcased ‘Sulai Honey’ for GI-tag before the review team and said that it is also called van-tulsi honey.
“It is the world’s best honey. It was presented to the British queen during an official visit,” he said.
Abha Rishi, CEO, AIC-BIMTECH, in her address deliberated upon the need for inculcating a clear vision in the students aligned towards their professional goals.
She mentioned that the right mentorship, guidance and a complementing team together can support young entrepreneurs to shape their journey.
She also highlighted the importance of thinking out of the box and implementing the same.
Prof Parikshat Singh Manhas said that the workshop has been conceptualised with the objective of promoting entrepreneurial activity and training faculty mentors to encourage students to innovate and become job creators rather than job seekers.
