Guwahati: In a major push to promote India’s indigenous heritage, traditional skills and local economy, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Thursday inaugurated the GI Mahotsav, titled “Promoting India’s Heritage through GI Products”, at the Arya Vidyapeeth College Ground here. The festival is an initiative of the Ministry of MSME, Government of India, organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) with support from the Office of the Development Commissioner (MSME).
Addressing the gathering, Governor Acharya said the GI Mahotsav reflects the true spirit of the “Vocal for Local” vision by showcasing India’s rich cultural wealth through its Geographical Indication (GI) products. He described the event as an important platform for giving national and global visibility to products nurtured over generations by artisans, weavers, farmers and craftsmen.
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Explaining the importance of GI tags, the Governor noted that they establish a product’s unique identity, linking its quality and reputation to a specific geographical region. GI products, he said, represent the cultural heritage and traditional knowledge systems of communities, particularly those in rural and indigenous areas.
Highlighting Assam’s contribution, he referred to GI-tagged products such as Muga and Eri silk, Sualkuchi weaving, Sarthebari bell metal, Asharikandi terracotta, Assam tea and Kaji Nemu as symbols of the state’s cultural and economic identity. He added that GI products enhance livelihoods while preserving sustainable and traditional practices.
Governor Acharya also outlined various central schemes supporting GI-linked MSMEs and stressed the role of women and youth in driving innovation, branding and market access. He said the Mahotsav is not just an exhibition but a celebration of India’s cultural soul and self-reliant future. The inaugural programme was attended by PHDCCI Secretary General Dr Ranjit Mehta, MSME Committee Chairman Vinod Karwa, NEC Secretary Satinder Kumar Bhalla and other dignitaries, along with artisans, entrepreneurs and youth representatives.
