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Meghalaya’s Ryndia and Khasi Handloom Products Granted GI Tag for Indigenous Textiles.

National | Dated: 12 Apr 2025

In April 2025, Chennai (Tamil Nadu, TN)-based Geographical Indications (GI) Registry, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I), officially granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Meghalaya's indigenous textile, 'Ryndia' silk and Khasi handloom products.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - This achievement aligns with the vision of Meghalaya Chief Minister (CM) Conrad Kongkal Sangma and Textiles Minister Paul Lyngdoh to promote the state’s indigenous heritage and establish "Brand Meghalaya" on a global platform.
  • - The GI recognition applies to Ryndia, a handwoven, hand-spun, naturally dyed, organically produced, and ethically sourced fabric, along with other traditional Meghalaya handloom products.
  • - The initiative was led by the Meghalaya Department of Textiles with support from NABARD and technical guidance from GI expert Dr. Rajnikanth, facilitating joint applications by the Textiles Department and the Meghalaya Ryndia Producers Association. It was further catalyzed by the recognition of Umden-Diwon Village (Ri-Bhoi district) as Meghalaya’s 1st Eri Silk Village on February 12, 2021.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) "Ryndia" is the Khasi name for Eri silk, derived from the ryndia (castor) plant that feeds the Philosamia ricini silkworms. It is a unique heirloom fabric known for its traditional and sustainable qualities. Ryndia or Eri silk is also referred to as Peace Silk or Ahimsa Silk, as it is extracted without harming the silkworms, preserving Meghalaya's eco-conscious weaving heritage.
  • (ii) This fabric is primarily produced by the indigenous Khasi, Bhoi, and Jaintia artisans of Meghalaya, with Ryndia weaving being a woman-centric tradition among the Khasi tribes. The fabric is hand-spun, handwoven, and naturally dyed, reflecting both cultural legacy and ethical craftsmanship.
  • (iii) A Geographical Indication (GI) tag certifies products from a specific region with unique qualities or reputation. In India, it is governed by the GI Act, 1999 (effective from 15 Sept 2003). The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MoC&I) aims to reach 10,000 GI tags by 2030 to boost local heritage.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Recently, which state's indigenous textiles – Ryndia and Khasi handloom products – received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag?

Correct Answer: Meghalaya

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Meghalaya

  • Chief Minister (CM) : Conrad Kongkal Sangma
  • Governor : Chandrashekhar H. Vijayashankar