Shillong, Apr 2: In a remarkable achievement in Meghalaya’s efforts to obtain global recognition for its unique produces, the state’s traditional handwoven silk Ryndia has secured the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the GI Authority.
Ryndia has now been uploaded as one of the GI-tagged products in the official website of the GI Authority under Government of India.
“A new chapter for Meghalaya’s Ryndia & Meghalaya Textiles commences, as the state has deservedly secured the prestigious GI tag for its handwoven, handspun, naturally dyed, organically produced, ethically sourced fabric – the Ryndia, along with Meghalaya Handloom Products,” stated an official press release.
A lot of efforts have been put by multiple agencies in getting prestigious recognition.
The applications seeking GI tag for Ryndia were jointly submitted by the state Textiles department and the Meghalaya Ryndia Producers’ Association four years ago.
The applications were submitted immediately after the landmark declaration of Umden-Diwon as the state’s first Eri Silk village on 12 February 2021.
The entire exercise also had support from NABARD and technical assistance from Dr Rajnikanth, the statement said.
Principal secretary FR Kharkongor led a delegation to Kolkata last year to pursue the GI application for Ryndia. The team comprised multiple professionals, including weavers-cum-artisans from the Silk village.
“The efforts have effectively synchronised with the overall dynamic vision of chief minister Conrad Sangma and minister textiles Paul Lyngdoh to collectively leverage the state’s inherent & tangible soft power and to vigorously promote Brand Meghalaya through its unique products & immersive experiences which culminated in the GI recognition for Meghalaya’s Ryndia and Meghalaya Khasi Handloom Products,” the official release stated.
