18.4.13

Mangalagiri fabric gets GI tag


In what could be a blessing in disguise, the Centre has given a new lease of life to the struggling Mangalagiri handloom sector by granting Geographical Indication (GI) status.
The AP state government applied for the GI status for Mangalagiri handlooms and fabrics about three years ago and finally secured it. The GI status is specific recognition granted to the product which would bar others from using that name.
The GI certification is granted only after various inspections and scrutiny where the authorities of intellectual properties wing verify whether the product possesses distinctive qualities. The GI is granted only when the produce is found to be made according to traditional methods, or enjoys a certain reputation, due to its geographical origin.
Mangalagiri handlooms and fabrics have already secured a logo registered for the product and grant of GI would further help boost the market.
According to local master weavers, presently Mangalagiri handlooms and fabrics have an annual turnover of just Rs.10 crore and it could easily make a business of Rs 50 crore in a couple of years from now.
Apco chairman and master weaver Murugudu Hanumantha Rao expressed happiness over Mangalagiri handlooms getting the GI status. He said that Mangalagiri handlooms have distinct style and fashion and the GI status would certainly revive the market globally. More than 10,000 weavers depended on the handloom sector in Mangalagiri.

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