Telangana set to get five more GI tag recognitions

Telangana is set to secure five new GI tags, enhancing protection for traditional crafts and boosting local economies.

Telangana is poised to secure five additional Geographical Indication (GI) tags, strengthening efforts to protect traditional livelihoods and region-specific products. The products in advanced stages of recognition are Narayanpet Jewellery Making, Hyderabad Pearls, Banjara Tribal Jewellery, Banjara Needle Craft, and Bathik Paintings.

The State government has intensified its focus on identifying and protecting traditional products across food, handicrafts, and textile sectors. Detailed documentation and field studies for the five products have already been completed, and applications are at advanced stages with the GI Registry, according to officials. Over the last two years, Telangana has secured two GI tags. Hyderabad Lac Bangles received the GI tag on March 2, 2024 while Warangal Chapata Chilli received recognition on March 28, 2025.

The GI recognition for Hyderabad Lac Bangles, an age-old craft practised by traditional artisan communities, has improved product authenticity, protected artisans from cheap imitations, and expanded market access. Similarly, the GI tag for Warangal Chapata Chilli has brought tangible benefits for farmers in the region. Cultivated largely by small and marginal farmers, the GI status has improved price realisation, strengthened bargaining power in markets, and opened up domestic and export opportunities.

Telangana currently has 18 GI-tagged products, including Pochampally Ikat, Adilabad Dokra, Warangal Durries, Puttapaka Telia Rumal, Tandur Red Gram, Gadwal Saree, Siddipet Gollabama, Cheriyal Paintings, and Hyderabad Haleem. Beyond the five products nearing approval, applications have also been filed for Armoor Turmeric, Nalgonda Chitti Dosakai, Kollapur Benishan Mango, Mahadevpur Tussar Silk, Jagtial Sesame, and Nayakpod Masks.

Narayanpet Jewellery making is rooted in generational metalworking traditions and the GI recognition is expected to enhance visibility, generate employment, and attract younger artisans to the trade. Hyderabad Pearls trade has supported thousands of workers involved in grading, drilling, stringing, design, and retail. GI status will help protect the identity of Hyderabad pearls globally.

The Banjara Needle Craft, a centuries-old textile art practiced primarily by Banjara tribal women, is a key source of household income. The Banjara Tribal Jewellery is handcrafted silver and metal ornaments that form an integral part of Banjara cultural identity. The Bathik paintings, practised mainly in Siddipet and Medak regions, combine storytelling with visual art.