Nagaland Seeks Heritage Protection

This recent push for GI tags was formalized at a stakeholder meeting on March 5, 2026, in Dimapur. The initiative is a collaboration between the Nagaland Handloom and Handicraft Development Corporation (NHHDC), the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC), and the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. Among the 24 items identified are the Pochury Shawl, Zeliang Textile, Sumi Shawl, Ao Textile, and Tikhir Jewellery. The applications are being driven by the respective tribal apex bodies, such as the Pochury Hoho, Zeliang People's Organization, Sumi Hoho, Ao Senden, and Tikhir Council, ensuring community ownership. This effort builds on Nagaland's existing success with Geographical Indications. The state has already secured GI tags for several unique products, including the fiery Naga Mircha (King Chilli), the Naga Tree Tomato, the Naga Cucumber, and the intricate Chakhesang Shawls. For Naga communities, these textiles are more than just cloth; they are historical records in a society that traditionally lacked a written script. Specific motifs woven into the shawls can signify a person's social status, their clan, or achievements, such as a warrior's success in battle. The economic implications of GI tags are significant, offering legal protection against mass-produced imitations and helping to ensure authenticity. This certification allows artisans, a majority of whom are women, to command better prices and gain access to international markets, turning cultural heritage into a sustainable livelihood. This protection is crucial as Naga weavers face considerable challenges, including competition from power looms, inadequate capital, and limited market access. By securing these tags, the communities aim to preserve ancient skills and empower artisans economically.