SRINAGAR, Aug 22 (Agencies): The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has launched a Geographical Indication (GI) QR Code Management System at its Quality Control Division (QCD) in Srinagar to authenticate handmade products and strengthen certification of traditional crafts, particularly those facing decline.
The QCD has become the third GI laboratory in Jammu and Kashmir, after the NABL-accredited IICT and PTQCC laboratories. It will now undertake testing and GI labelling of products including Wagguv, Gabba, felted Namdah, Walnut Wood Carving, Chain Stitch, Khatamband and Crewel.
The QR-based labels are expected to help establish the authenticity of certified products and improve their marketability in domestic and international markets, particularly for traditional crafts that have not traditionally received the same market visibility as high-value products such as Kashmir Pashmina, hand-knotted carpets, and Kani and Sozni shawls.
The initiative is also aimed at supporting languishing crafts such as Namdah, Gabba and Wagguv, which the department said have significant market potential within and outside Jammu and Kashmir.
The refurbished QCD laboratory was recently inaugurated by the Chief Minister and has been equipped with a high-resolution digital microscope and other required equipment.
The laboratory’s upgradation was funded by the Ministry of Textiles under the National Handicrafts Development Programme along with the UT Capex Budget. Until recently, the facility was being used for labelling non-GI handmade products from Kashmir.
The department said the GI QR labelling system would complement its ongoing initiatives in capacity building and improved packaging, while helping traditional artisans access wider markets and strengthen the brand value of their products.
Artisans, weavers and other stakeholders have been encouraged to approach the QCD Laboratory for GI labelling of eligible products at nominal user charges.