Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary has welcomed the awarding of Geographical Indication (GI) tags to Nalanda’s Bawan Buti sarees and fabrics, Gaya’s Patharkatti stone craft and Bhojpur’s Pidhiya painting, describing the recognition as a significant achievement for the state’s traditional arts and crafts.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Chaudhary congratulated artisans, weavers, folk artists and organisations associated with the three traditional products, saying the recognition would help showcase Bihar’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship on national and international platforms.
He said the achievement would provide fresh momentum to the principles of “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” by promoting indigenous products and strengthening local economies.
Recognition For Traditional Art Forms
The Chief Minister said Bihar’s folk arts, handicrafts and handloom traditions form an integral part of the state’s cultural identity.
According to him, the GI tag will provide legal protection to the unique identity of these products while enhancing their visibility and prestige in domestic and global markets.
He described Nalanda’s Bawan Buti weaving tradition, Gaya’s renowned stone craftsmanship and Bhojpur’s Pidhiya painting as outstanding examples of Bihar’s cultural diversity and artistic excellence.
“The GI tag is a tribute to the years of hard work, skill and dedication of the artisans, weavers and artists who have preserved these traditions across generations,” he said.
Boost To Marketing And Exports
Chaudhary said the recognition is expected to strengthen prospects for branding, marketing and exporting these products, helping artisans access wider markets and improve incomes.
He added that the development could generate new opportunities for employment and self-employment at the local level while contributing to the growth of the rural economy.
The Chief Minister reiterated the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting traditional industries, handicrafts, handlooms and folk arts.
Stakeholders Praised
Chaudhary also acknowledged the efforts of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), government departments, producer groups, artisan organisations and other stakeholders involved in securing the GI tags.
He extended special congratulations to the artisans, weavers and women artists who have continued to nurture and sustain these traditional art forms over the years.
Calling the recognition a historic milestone, Chaudhary said the achievement reflects Bihar’s cultural richness and fills the state with pride while opening new avenues for the preservation and promotion of its traditional heritage.
