Ladakh's Wood Carving
Ladakh’s wood carving has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
Context: Last year, the government granted GI Tag for Raktsey Karpo apricot of Ladakh, first ever GI tag for Ladakh
Ladakh's wood carving has been known for its intricate designs and unique patterns.
The designs are mostly inspired by Buddhist themes and motifs.
The wood carvings are made from local wood such as willow and apricot.
They are often used for decorating doors, windows, and other household items. (srsalman.com)
The most ubiquitous piece of furniture is the 'chokste', a low heighted wooden table.
The heavily ornamental carving is either simply polished, or is painted and then varnished.
The GI tag will make cultural traditions of Ladakh popular and benefit wood carving artisans of Ladakh.
What is Geographical Indication Tag UPSC?
Geographic Indication (GI) is defined under Article-23 and 24 of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
India is a member of the WTO and thus enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999 which came into force from 2003.
A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
The qualities, characteristics or reputation of the product should be essentially due to the place of origin.
The registration of a geographical indication is valid for a period of 10 years.
Darjeeling tea became the first GI tagged product in India
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