New Delhi: The vibrant culture and rich traditions of Arunachal Pradesh took centre stage at the three-day Arunachal Pradesh GI Mahotsav held at Select City Walk mall, Delhi.
The event, which began on February 28, celebrates the state’s remarkable Geographical Indication (GI) products, ranging from intricate textiles and exquisite handicrafts to flavourful cuisines and agricultural treasures.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasised that the festival serves as a platform to spotlight the state’s finest GI-tagged products on a national scale.
Currently, the state boasts 20 GI-recognised products, with an ambitious goal of increasing that number to 50 by 2030.
“This festival is a tribute to the identity of our land and the dedication of our artisans and farmers,” said Chief Minister Khandu. “It’s an opportunity to come together, celebrate, and take pride in our cultural legacy.”
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who inaugurated the festival, highlighted the event’s dual purpose of showcasing Arunachal Pradesh’s GI products and providing a national platform for its craftspeople, entrepreneurs, and farmers.
He also commended the state’s linguistic richness, home to over 100 unique dialects, and reaffirmed the Ministry of Education’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous languages through educational initiatives.
“The Arunachal GI Festival embodies the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ and bridges the past with the future, proving that heritage and progress can thrive side by side,” said Pradhan.
Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, a proud son of Arunachal Pradesh, celebrated the festival as a testament to the state’s extraordinary heritage.
“The vibrant colors, intricate craftsmanship, and inspiring stories behind each GI-tagged product reflect the passion, legacy, and identity of Arunachal’s people,” Rijiju remarked.
“This festival connects our artisans to the world, opening new avenues for recognition and growth.”
With a spotlight on empowering artisans, weavers, and farmers, the festival is a significant step in elevating Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural and economic presence both nationally and internationally.
As Chief Minister Khandu aptly concluded, “The GI Mahotsav is not just about promoting our indigenous products—it’s about preserving our traditions while paving the way for a brighter future for our artisans and cultural heritage.”
