Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya inaugurated the GI Mahotsav, titled, “Promoting India’s Heritage through GI Products”, at the Arya Vidyapeeth College Ground in Guwahati on Thursday.
The GI Mahotsav is an initiative of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) with the support of the Office of the Development Commissioner (MSME).
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Acharya expressed happiness for being able to be a part in the GI Festival, which celebrates India’s rich heritage through its distinctive Geographical Indication (GI) products.
He said the Mahotsav is a tribute to ‘Vocal for local’ and promote India’s local products, which are results of the tireless efforts of artisans, farmers, weavers, and craftsmen.
“This festival is a platform for providing an effective platform and giving national and global visibility to the country’s traditional skills, cultural legacy, and local economy,” the Governor said.
He congratulated the Ministry of MSME and the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry for conceptualising and organising the festival, which he described as a forward-looking and impactful initiative.
Elaborating on the importance of Geographical Indications, Acharya said a GI tag signifies that a product originates from a specific geographical region and derives its quality, reputation, and distinctive characteristics from that place.
GI products, he noted, embody the traditional identity, cultural heritage, and indigenous knowledge of any particular region, and are preserved and developed over generations by rural, marginal, and indigenous communities. “Their uniqueness and authenticity have earned them recognition at both national and international levels,” he said.
