Kannadippaya Handicraft Gets GI Tag from Kerala

Why in the News ?

Kannadippaya, a traditional tribal handicraft from Kerala, received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, becoming the state’s first tribal product to do so. This recognition is expected to boost global visibility, preserve heritage, and improve artisan livelihoods.

Kannadippaya Handicraft Gets GI Tag from Kerala

Kannadippaya Receives GI Tag Recognition:

  • Kannadippaya, a traditional tribal handicraft from Kerala, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
  • It becomes the first tribal handicraft from Kerala to achieve this recognition.
  • The GI tag was awarded to Unarvu Pattikavargha Vividodesha Sahakarana Sangam (Venmani) and Vanasree Bamboo Craft & Vanavibhava Shekarana unit (Pookunnu), both located in Idukki district.
  • The term Kannadippaya means “mirror mat,” derived from its reflective woven pattern.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Significance Kannadippaya:

  • Crafted from the inner layers of reed bamboo, Kannadippaya mats are known for their natural insulation—they keep warm in winters and cool in summers.
  • This traditional art is maintained by tribal communities such as Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, Kadar, and artisans like Ulladan, Malayarayan, and Hill Pulaya across Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad.
  • The product not only reflects indigenous knowledge but also sustainable craftsmanship using eco-friendly materials.

Market Potential and Preservation Efforts

  • Shyam Visvanathan (ex-director, Kerala Forest Research Institute) and V. Raghu (senior scientist) played key roles in achieving GI status.
  • Sunil P.V. of Vanasree Bamboo Craft highlighted the lack of a structured market.
  • R. Elsy, former head of the IPR cell at Kerala Agricultural University, emphasized reviving youth interest.
  • The GI tag is expected to help expand global market access and promote sustainable livelihoods.

What are Geographical Indication (GI) tag ?

●      Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of Intellectual Property Right (IPR) for products originating from a specific region with unique qualities.

●      Recognized under TRIPS Agreement and Paris Convention.

●      Benefits: Legal protection, exclusive usage rights, prevention of misuse or imitation, and market recognition.

●      Covers: Agricultural goods, food, handicrafts, industrial items, etc.

●      Eligibility: Traders’ groups/associations with historical records and production methods.

●      Governed in India by the GI Act, 1999 under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce.

●      First GI tag in India: Darjeeling Tea.

●      Promotes rural development, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly practices.

●      GI Registry is located in Chennai.