Aditya Malhotra: Will Secure National and International Markets for Jharkhand's GI Products; Chamber to Extend Full Support
Ranchi: Speaking at the ceremony marking NABARD's 45th Foundation Day, Aditya Malhotra, President of the Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries, reiterated his commitment to securing global recognition for Jharkhand's GI (Geographical Indication) products. He stated that the Jharkhand Chamber would provide all possible support to take the state's traditional products to national and international markets. He added that products made by local artisans, self-help groups, and rural entrepreneurs would be given a new identity through modern packaging, branding, and digital marketing.
Addressing the gathering as a special guest, Aditya Malhotra noted that over the past 45 years, NABARD has played a significant role in empowering rural India and promoting self-help groups, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and rural entrepreneurship. Extending his best wishes on the Foundation Day, he remarked that Jharkhand's identity is not limited to its mineral wealth; the state's rich culture, tribal heritage, traditional handicrafts, and local products are also among its greatest strengths.
He highlighted that it is a matter of pride for the entire state that 11 products from Jharkhand—including Bhagalpuri sarees and fabrics, Kuchai silk, Kesariya Kalakand, Dokra craft, tribal jewelry, and bamboo craft—have received the GI tag. The need of the hour is to take these products to major domestic and international markets through improved packaging, quality, branding, and effective marketing.
The Chamber President stated that in today's digital era, e-commerce platforms have become the most effective medium for connecting local products to the global market. Connecting Jharkhand's artisans and self-help groups to digital platforms could lead to a significant increase in their income. He added that the Jharkhand Chamber would work collaboratively with NABARD, Jharcraft, and the Department of Industries in this direction and would promote GI products in the corporate gifting and retail sectors through its member establishments. Citing the example of Vietnam, Aditya Malhotra noted that the country is engaged in the large-scale production and export of bamboo-based fabrics and other products, thereby generating significant economic benefits for local artisans and industries. Jharkhand, too, holds immense potential for industries based on natural resources, including bamboo. If these sectors are developed systematically, employment and improved incomes can be provided to thousands of rural families across the state.
He stated that Jharkhand’s GI-tagged products are not merely handicrafts but symbols of the state's cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Gaining global recognition for these products will strengthen local artisans financially and provide fresh momentum to the state's economy.
The event was attended by a large number of officials from various departments, bank representatives, members of self-help groups, artisans, and entrepreneurs. Notable attendees included Garima Singh, Managing Director of Jharcraft; Raksha Mishra, Regional Director of the RBI; Deepmala Ghosh, Chief General Manager of NABARD (Jharkhand); and Guru Prasad Gond, General Manager of the SLBC.
