Assamese ‘Gamocha’ gets GI tag

Tags: State News

‘Gamocha’, a symbol of the culture and identity of Assam, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the central government, five years after the first application was made.

Important facts

• The GI tag has been registered in favour of the Directorate of Handloom & Textiles of the Assam government under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

• The process was started in 2017 when an application for a GI tag was filed by the Institute of Handicraft Development of Golaghat district.

About Assamese Gamocha

• 'Gamocha' literally means towel and is commonly used on a day-to-day basis in Assamese households.

• It is a hand-woven rectangular cotton cloth with a red border and various designs, traditionally presented to elders and guests by the Assamese people as a mark of respect.

• It is an integral part of all socio-religious celebrations in the state and is regarded as a form of Assamese identity and pride.

• For specific purposes, it is also made of expensive materials like traditional Assamese 'Pat' silk and in different colours as well.

• A 'gamocha' meant for exchange during 'Bihu' festival is known as 'Bihuwan'.