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Subject: History

  • National Manuscripts Bill and Cultural Legacy

    manuscript

    Central Idea

    • India’s rich heritage of ancient manuscripts, ranging from mathematical texts to religious scriptures, holds invaluable historical and cultural significance.
    • The proposed National Manuscripts Bill, 2023, aims to safeguard and document this wealth, ensuring accurate records, accessibility, and conservation.

    Unveiling the National Manuscripts Bill

    • Bill Objectives: The forthcoming National Manuscripts Bill, 2023, plans to document, catalog, and preserve Indian heritage texts. It is set to be introduced in the Winter Session of Parliament.
    • NMA Composition: The bill proposes the formation of a 10-member National Manuscripts Authority (NMA) with representatives from Culture, Finance, and Education ministries, Central Sanskrit University, State representatives, and private agencies.
    • Apex Policy Making Body: NMA will oversee digitization, conservation, preservation, editing, and publication of manuscripts. It will function as the apex policy-making body in these areas.

    India’s Manuscript Treasure

    • Historic Significance: The Bakhshali manuscript, with its early use of zero, symbolizes the intellectual and mathematical achievements of ancient India. Numerous such manuscripts in various scripts exist in libraries worldwide.
    • Vast Manuscript Collection: India boasts around 10 million manuscripts in 80 ancient scripts, encompassing themes like history, religion, literature, and more.
    • Cultural Diversity: Manuscripts are written on diverse materials and span themes in Sanskrit as well as regional languages.
    • Preservation Challenge: The National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) is tasked with preserving this treasure, an essential endeavor to safeguard cultural and historical identity.

    Empowering the National Manuscripts Authority

    • Regulation and Investigation: NMA will possess the powers of a civil court to manage manuscript access. It will also have an investigative arm to probe theft and desecration incidents.
    • Collaboration: NMA can partner with educational institutions for scholarships and fellowships related to manuscript studies.
    • Digital Portal: The NMA will establish a dedicated digital portal for indexing, cataloguing, and sharing manuscript copies.
    • Private Ownership: The authority can acquire manuscripts from private owners if their uniqueness and content’s significance warrants it. Compensation would be determined by experts.

    Revitalizing Manuscript Studies

    • Linking Manuscripts with Livelihood: There is a need to intertwine manuscript studies with livelihood, fostering renewed cultural engagement.
    • Global Interest: The proposed survey and documentation of Indian manuscripts abroad are expected to elevate global interest in these texts.

    Digital Endeavors by NMM

    • Digitization Efforts: The National Mission for Manuscripts has digitized a substantial number of manuscripts, totaling around 3.3 lakh manuscripts and 3.1 crore folios.
    • Online Access: While over 1.18 lakh manuscripts have been uploaded, approximately 70,000 are accessible to the public online.
    • Other Cultural Institutions: Manuscripts are housed in esteemed institutions like the Sarasvati Mahal Library in Thanjavur, Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune, Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi, and the Oriental Research Institute in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Conclusion

    • The proposed National Manuscripts Bill seeks to bridge the past with the present, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of India’s diverse manuscript legacy.
    • By establishing the National Manuscripts Authority and promoting digital initiatives, India aims to share its invaluable cultural wealth with the world, fostering a deeper understanding of its historical and intellectual heritage.

    Back2Basics: Bakhshali Manuscript

    bakshali manuscript

    • The Bakhshali Manuscript is an ancient mathematical document. It was discovered in 1881, buried in a field in Bakhshali village near Peshawar (Pakistan).
    • It is written in Sharda Script.
    • It predates the work of Brahmagupta, a 7th-century mathematician, and an inscription in the 9th-century Gwalior’s Chaturbhuj Temple.
    • The manuscript is composed of 70 fragile leaves made of birch bark.
    • It contains hundreds of mathematical notations, including the use of zero as a placeholder.
    • Zeros in the manuscript are represented by dots that serve as placeholders for different place values.
    • In 1902, the manuscript was presented to the University of Oxford’s Bodleian Library, where it has been preserved since.
    • The manuscript is a compilation of mathematical material from multiple periods. Some pages date as far back as the 3rd to 4th century, while others are from the 8th and 10th centuries.

    Influence on Modern Mathematics

    • The manuscript is a compendium of rules and illustrative examples.
    • Each example is stated as a problem, the solution is described, and it is verified that the problem has been solved.
    • The sample problems are in verse and the commentary is in prose associated with calculations.
    • The topics covered include fractions, square roots, arithmetic and geometric progressions, solutions of simple equations, simultaneous linear equations, quadratic equations and indeterminate equations of the second degree.

  • Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in G-20 Logo Sparks Protest

    Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

    Central Idea

    • The inclusion of the Sanskrit term “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family) in the G-20 logo has sparked diplomatic discussions between India and China.
    • Reports surfaced suggesting that China objected to the use of non-UN languages like Sanskrit in G-20 texts being negotiated.

    Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

    • The ancient Sanskrit phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” encapsulates the idea of the world as one interconnected family.
    • Rooted in religious texts, this concept reverberates through history and has found resonance in modern times, impacting diplomatic exchanges and global events.

    अयं निजः परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम्।

    उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्॥

    Meaning: Considerations like “he is mine or he is another’s” occur only to the narrow minded person. To the broad-minded person the whole world is a family.

    Origin and Meaning:

    • Sanskrit Phrase: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” is composed of three words: Vasudha (Earth), Eva (Thus), and Kutumbakam (Family).
    • Moral Value: It is considered a profound moral value, reflecting interconnectedness and universal harmony.

    Historical Context:

    • Maha Upanishad Verse: The original verse appears in Maha Upanishad stressing unity among all beings and the world.
    • Engraved Symbolism: The verse is inscribed in the entrance hall of the Parliament of India, reflecting its importance in Indian society.
    • Embrace of Unity: The verse advocates embracing the world as a family, urging magnanimity and detachment.

    Interpretations and Influences

    • Spiritual Progress: Subsequent shlokas expand on the idea, stating that detachment leads to attaining the Brahman (Universal Spirit).
    • Influence in Hindu Literature: The Bhagavad Gita refers to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” as the “Loftiest Vedantic Thought,” demonstrating its influence in Hindu philosophy.
    • Gandhian Connection: Dr. N. Radhakrishnan relates the concept to Gandhi’s holistic development vision and nonviolent conflict resolution.

    Modern Relevance

    • PM’s Reference: Prime Minister Modi invoked the phrase, highlighting its values of unity and cultural richness.
    • International Earth Science Olympiad: The phrase was used in the logo of the 7th International Earth Science Olympiad, emphasizing Earth’s interconnected systems.
    • India’s G20 Presidency: The theme and logo of India’s G20 Presidency included “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” representing global unity.

    Diplomatic Controversy

    • China’s Opposition: China objected to the use of Sanskrit in G20 documents, asserting that it’s not an official UN language.
    • Logo Exclusion: Despite its significance, the phrase did not appear in official G20 documents due to China’s objections.

  • History of Pepper Trade from India

    pepper

    Central Idea

    • Pepper, often referred to as the “king of spices,” played a pivotal role in driving exploration, colonization, and cultural exchanges between the East and West.

    Early Origins and Mystique of Pepper

    • Luxury Commodity: Pepper, once considered a luxury good, was produced predominantly along India’s Malabar Coast and was shrouded in secrecy and legend. European Christians believed it came from the mythical land of “Prester John,” while Arabs, who controlled the trade, believed it grew behind waterfalls guarded by fire-breathing dragons.
    • Ancient Trade: Archaeological evidence indicates that pepper was consumed in ancient India as early as 2000 BCE. It was exported to other parts of Asia and North Africa, with the mummified remains of Ramesses the Great from 1213 BCE found with peppercorns in Egypt.
    • Arab Dominance: By the 10th century, Arab traders held a virtual monopoly on the spice trade, connecting India with the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, controlling supply and prices.

    Pepper’s Role in Global Commerce

    • Currency and Rent: Pepper became so valuable that it was used as currency and rent in various parts of the world. For example, in 408 BCE, the King of Visigoths demanded 3,000 kilograms of pepper as part of the siege of Rome.
    • Spices and the Age of Discovery: The European craving for spices, particularly pepper, was a driving force behind the Age of Discovery. Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas in search of India, while Vasco da Gama found the route to India around the Cape of Good Hope.
    • Portuguese and Dutch Dominance: The Portuguese initially controlled the spice trade from the Malabar region but were unable to dominate the pepper-producing areas. The Dutch East India Company monopolized the sale of pepper and challenged Portuguese supremacy.
    • English East India Company: Queen Elizabeth I granted the English East India Company the right to trade in the East Indies in 1600. The Company’s expeditions marked the foundation of the English colonial presence in India.

    Cultural Exchanges and Islam’s Spread:

    • Malabar’s Trading Legacy: The Malabar Coast, known as “the city of spices,” served as a hub for international trade. The Zamorin welcomed traders from various cultures, including Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities.
    • Islamic Influence: The pepper trade helped spread Islam across regions, extending from East Africa to southern China. Malabar witnessed a significant Islamic presence going back almost a thousand years.

    Pepper’s Evolution and Legacy

    • From Luxury to Staple: Improved production techniques and cultivation in tropical regions led to pepper becoming a household staple. Its significance in driving exploration and colonial empires remains a significant part of world history.

    Conclusion

    • Pepper’s journey through history reflects the transformative power of trade and the influence of commodities in shaping the world.
    • Once a prized luxury, pepper became a driving force behind exploration, colonization, and cultural exchanges between East and West.
    • Its significance as a global commodity and the desire to control its trade shaped the course of history, and its legacy as a vital spice endures in our daily lives.

  • Festivals in news: Muharram and Ashura

    muharram ashura

    Central Idea

    • For the first time in over three decades, the Jammu and Kashmir government permitted a Muharram procession in Srinagar, drawing thousands of Shia mourners on the 8th of Muharram.
    • The decision has been widely hailed.

    What is Muharram?

    • Muharram is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and it holds significant religious and historical importance for Muslims worldwide.
    • The word “Muharram” itself means “forbidden” in Arabic, signifying the sacred nature of this month.
    • It is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare and conflicts are traditionally prohibited.
    • It is observed by both Sunni and Shia Muslims (and even Hindus), though it holds different historical and religious significance for each group.

    Celebration of Ashura

    Ashura is the tenth day of Muharram and is the most significant day within the month.

    • Shia Muslims: They commemorate the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed’s grandson, Imam Hussain, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The prophet’s son-in-law, Ali, and Ali’s elder son, Hassan, are also remembered during this period as having suffered and died.  On Ashura, Shia Muslims observe unique mourning rituals, including self-flagellation, chest-beating, and in some cases, forehead cutting using sharpened knives and chains with attached blades. ‘Taziya’, a tableaux procession is also held by the Shia Community.
    • Sunni Muslims: Ashura marks the day when Prophet Moses and the Children of Israel were saved from Pharaoh’s tyranny by crossing the Red Sea.
    • Hindu community: Some Hindus also observe Muharram by getting themselves painted in tiger stripes, visiting households and performing “huli kunita” as part of their “harake” (vow).

    Ashura Celebration in Kashmir

    • Ban under Dogra Rulers: During the reign of Dogra rulers, Muharram processions were either prohibited or allowed only at night, citing tensions between Shia and Sunni communities.
    • 1920s: In the 1920s, despite the Dogra order for morning processions, mourners marched during the day, with both Shias and Sunnis joining the procession. This became associated with the Muslim freedom struggle in Kashmir.
    • Selective Permits: Later, certain individuals and families were issued permits to take out processions, but the main Muharram procession was banned when militancy began.

    Significance of allowing processions

    • The permission for the Muharram procession in Srinagar after a long ban is a significant milestone, signifying progress towards religious freedom in the region.
    • It emphasizes the need to respect the religious sentiments of the people and uphold the values of inclusivity and unity among different communities in the valley.

  • Meri Maati Mera Desh Initiative

    meri maati

    Central Idea

    • The Union government has launched the ‘Meri Maati Mera Desh’ campaign as a grand culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ celebrating 75 years of Indian Independence.

    Meri Maati Mera Desh

    • This initiative aims to honor and commemorate the sacrifices of martyrs.
    • It includes freedom fighters, defense personnel, and members of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and State Police, who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

    Five-Point Agenda

    1. Shilaphalakam Installation: Memorials will be erected, adorned with the names of those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The veers (bravehearts) will be remembered and respected for their immense contribution to the country’s freedom, unity, and integrity.
    2. Pledge of Commitment: A solemn pledge will be taken by people at the memorial sites, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to the nation and its values.
    3. Vasudha Vandhan: Every gram panchayat or village will participate in ‘Vasudha Vandhan’ by planting 75 saplings of indigenous species, rejuvenating Mother Earth, and developing Amrit Vatikas (Eternal Gardens).
    4. Veeron Ka Vandan: Freedom fighters and the families of deceased freedom fighters will be honored and felicitated. Retired defense personnel, CAPF, and State Police personnel, along with the families of those who lost their lives in the line of duty, will also receive recognition for their invaluable service to the nation.
    5. National Flag Hoisting: The National Flag will be proudly hoisted, and the National Anthem will resonate in unison, filling the air with patriotism and pride.

    Implementation and Events

    • Events will be organized at various levels, from panchayat and village to block, urban local bodies, state, and national levels.
    • Soil from every panchayat/village will be collected by young volunteers and brought to the block, from where ‘Mitti Kalash’ (pots of soil) will be ceremoniously transported to Delhi.
    • The collected soil will be utilized to create a unique garden, the Amrit Vatika, at the Kartavya Path in Delhi, honoring the heroes of Indian freedom struggle and national integrity.

  • Gyanvapi’s scientific survey by ASI begins

    gyanvapi

    Central Idea

    • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has commenced a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
    • It aims to ascertain whether the mosque was constructed atop a pre-existing Hindu temple, a matter that has been a subject of contention.
    • The mosque is not an ASI-protected site, and the ASI has no role in its maintenance or upkeep.

    Updates till date

    (A) Varanasi Court’s Order

    • Discovery during Previous Survey: During a court-mandated survey in May 2022, a structure claimed to be a “Shivling” by the Hindu side and a “fountain” by the Muslim side was found in a sealed section, which remained inaccessible since a previous Supreme Court order.
    • Exclusion from Survey: The court directed the ASI to exclude the sealed section from the survey while emphasizing the necessity of a scientific investigation to establish the historical facts.

    (B) Supreme Court’s Ruling

    • Protection Order: Earlier, the Supreme Court ordered the protection of the area around the claimed “Shivling” discovered during a video survey of the complex.
    • Mosque Management’s Argument: The mosque management contended that the structure in question is part of the water fountain mechanism at the ‘wazukhana’, the reservoir where devotees perform ablutions before offering namaz.
    • Legal Implications: Lawyers representing the mosque cited the Place of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which prohibits altering the character of any place of worship from its status on August 15, 1947. However, this Act does not apply to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid legal dispute.

    History of the Gyanvapi Mosque

    • Construction: The Gyanvapi Mosque was constructed in 1669 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who ordered the demolition of the existing Vishweshwar temple and its replacement with a mosque.
    • Temple Elements Incorporated: The plinth of the original temple was left intact, serving as the mosque’s courtyard, while one wall was spared and turned into the qibla wall, facing Mecca. Evidence of the temple’s materials can still be seen in the mosque’s construction.
    • Name Origin: The mosque’s name is derived from an adjoining well known as the Gyanvapi or Well of Knowledge.
    • Current Temple: The present Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built in the 18th century, adjacent to the Gyanvapi Mosque, becoming a significant Hindu religious centre over the years.

    Longstanding Claims and Legal Framework

    • Claims of Hindu Worship: Many Hindus believe that the original deity of the Vishweshwar temple was hidden inside the Gyanvapi well during Aurangzeb’s raid. This belief has fueled the desire to perform puja and rituals at the site.
    • Places of Worship Act: The Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, stipulates that the nature of all places of worship, except for the one in Ayodhya, should be maintained as it was on August 15, 1947. It aims to preserve the character of religious sites and prevents legal challenges to pre-existing structures.
    • Conflicting Claims: The case involved arguments from both sides, with the temple worshipers claiming that the mosque was built on the site of an older temple, while another side pleaded that it was built on Wakf premises.

    Issue in the Limelight

    • Archaeological Survey: In April 2021, a Fast Track Court Civil Judge ordered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to conduct a comprehensive physical survey of the complex. The survey aimed to determine the structural relationship between the two religious structures.
    • Critique of the Cut-off Date: Worshippers argue that the cut-off date of August 15, 1947, prohibiting claims to religious sites, is arbitrary and denies Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs the right to “reclaim” their places of worship.
    • Opposition to the Law: Some groups have opposed the Places of Worship Act since its introduction, contending that the Centre lacks the authority to legislate on pilgrimage or burial grounds, which fall under the state list.

  • Who was Nawab Wajid Ali Shah (1822-1887)?

    nawab

    Central Idea

    • An exhibition, heritage walk, and talk will be held in Kolkata to commemorate the bicentenary year of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last king of Awadh.

    Nawab Wajid Ali Shah

    • Mirza Wajid Ali Shah (30 July 1822 – 1 September 1887) was the eleventh and final King of Awadh, reigning from 13 February 1847 to 11 February 1856.
    • He is remembered as a poet, playwright, dancer, and patron of the arts who made significant contributions during his rule.

    Reign and fall

    • Ascension to the Throne: Wajid Ali Shah became the King of Awadh in February 1847, assuming the position during a period of decline for the kingdom.
    • British Annexation: The British East India Company annexed Awadh on 11 February 1856, just two days before the ninth anniversary of Wajid Ali Shah’s coronation. He was subsequently exiled to Garden Reach in Metiabruz, near Kolkata, living on a pension.

    Patron of the Arts

    • Contributions to Music: Wajid Ali Shah was a generous patron of music and a talented composer. He nurtured the Lucknow Gharana of Kathak dance and enriched the light classical form of thumri. He composed ghazals and introduced new ragas, leaving a lasting impact on Hindustani music.
    • Kathak Dance: Wajid Ali Shah’s patronage elevated Kathak dance in Lucknow. He emphasized artistic expression, incorporating drama, emotion, and literature. The king popularized Kathak as a court dance and made it accessible to the common people.
    • Hindustani Theatre: The king established the Jogia Jashan, a grand pageant, and staged Rahas (dance-dramas) filled with poetry, lyrical compositions, and Kathak performances. His contributions laid the foundation for the development of Hindustani theatre.

    Literary Pursuits

    • Prose and Poetry: Wajid Ali Shah was a prolific writer in both Persian and Urdu. His works covered various subjects, including history, literature, and personal reflections. Notable works include “Huzn-i-Akhtar,” an autobiographical piece, and “Bani,” a treatise on music and dance.
    • Patronage of Writers: The king patronized numerous poets and writers in his court, including Mirza Ghalib. He granted pensions to renowned literary figures and encouraged the production of works that reflected the culture and life of the era.

    Exile Years and Legacy (1856-1887)

    • Exile in Metiabruz: After losing his kingdom, Wajid Ali Shah settled in Metiabruz near Kolkata. He created a miniature version of Lucknow and maintained his lavish lifestyle. Matiya Burj, a magnificent complex, served as a reminder of his beloved city.
    • Enduring Impact: Wajid Ali Shah’s compositions, including his famous thumri “Babul Mora Naihar Chhooto Jaay,” remain influential and have been performed by various artists. His contributions to music, dance, literature, and theatre continue to shape the cultural landscape, preserving his legacy.

    Conclusion

    • Mirza Wajid Ali Shah, the last King of Awadh, reigned from 1847 to 1856 before being exiled.
    • His patronage of the arts, including music, dance, theatre, and literature, left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Awadh.
    • Despite the challenges he faced and the loss of his kingdom, Wajid Ali Shah’s artistic endeavors and enduring legacy continue to inspire and enrich the region’s cultural identity.

  • Kanwar Yatra: What is it?

    kanwar yatra

    Central Idea: The Kanwar Yatra, a significant annual pilgrimage, commenced on July 4 and will continue until July 15.

    What is Kanwar Yatra?

    • This pilgrimage sees millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas or Kriyas, undertaking a journey to collect water from the Ganga River and offer it to Lord Shiva.
    • The Kanwar Yatra symbolizes the unbreakable bond between devotees and Lord Shiva and is considered an act of faith and devotion.

    Mythological Origins of Kanwar Yatra

    • Samudra Manthan: Kanwar Yatra is believed to have originated from the mythological story of Samudra Manthan, where Lord Shiva consumed poison to save the world. To alleviate the effects of the poison, all the gods poured water from the Ganga River on Lord Shiva.
    • King Rama’s Offering: Another version suggests that the ritual of Kanwar Yatra began when King Ram offered water from the Ganga to a statue of Lord Shiva (shivalinga) in an earthen pot.

    Customs and Rituals Performed

    • Collection of Ganga Water: Devotees, dressed in saffron attire, embark on foot to collect water from the Ganga River at Haridwar, Gomukh, and Gangotri. They carry two earthen pots filled with water, hung on a decorated bamboo stick, which they balance on their shoulders.
    • Significance of Purity: Devotees consider it essential to keep the pots from touching the ground or getting contaminated by dust, as it may impure the sacred water.
    • Challenging Journey: Kanwariyas undertake the yatra barefoot, covering long distances in challenging terrains and extreme weather conditions.

  • Meira Paibis: Manipur’s ‘torch-bearing’ Women Activists

    meira paibis

    Central Idea

    • During Home Minister’s visit to Manipur amidst ongoing violence in the state, he met with various civil society groups, including the Meira Paibis.
    • This article explores the significance of the Meira Paibis in Manipur’s civil society, their social role, and major actions they have undertaken.

    Who are the Meira Paibis of Manipur?

    • The Meira Paibis, also known as Imas or Mothers of Manipur, are Meitei women who represent a powerful moral force in Manipur’s civil society.
    • They come from various sections of society in the Imphal valley and are widely respected for their activism.
    • They Paibis are loosely organized, led by groups of senior women, and lack rigid hierarchy or overt political leanings.

    Social Role of Meira Paibis

    • Originating in 1977, the Meira Paibis began as a grassroots movement primarily focused on combating alcoholism and drug abuse.
    • Over time, their scope expanded to address human rights violations and work towards the development of society at large.
    • They serve as the conscience keepers of Manipuri society and have a permanent and palpable presence in civil society.

    Major Actions Undertaken

    • Support for Irom Sharmila: The Meira Paibi women actively supported Irom Sharmila during her 16-year hunger strike against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which grants immunity to armed forces in “disturbed” areas.
    • Advocacy for Inner Line Permit (ILP) System: In 2015, the Meira Paibis played a significant role in demanding the introduction of the ILP system, aiming to protect local interests, culture, and commercial opportunities.
    • Bandh Protests: The Meira Paibis organized bandhs and shutdown calls in markets to protest against perceived injustices, such as the broken promise of a marriage by an elected representative.
    • Recent Actions: During the current crisis, the Meira Paibis reportedly influenced the release of 12 KYKL cadres (an extremist group) who were apprehended by the armed forces, highlighting the influence of women activists in confronting security personnel.

    Conclusion

    • The Meira Paibis of Manipur play a crucial role in the state’s civil society.
    • Their activism spans a range of social and political issues, and they have consistently fought for justice, human rights, and the betterment of society.
    • Despite the recent controversy surrounding their alleged interference in security operations, their contribution as a powerful force for social change should be acknowledged and appreciated.

  • Seven products from UP get GI Tag

    Central Idea

    • The Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai has recently bestowed Geographical Indication (GI) tags on seven distinct products from Uttar Pradesh.
    • These products represent the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the region.

    What is GI Tag?

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

    GI tags awarded in UP

    (1) Amroha Dholak – A Musical Masterpiece

    • Description: The Amroha Dholak is a musical instrument crafted from natural wood, with a preference for mango, jackfruit, and teakwood.
    • Carving Process: Skilled artisans use mango and sheesham wood to carve multiple-sized hollow blocks, which are then fitted with animal skin, predominantly goatskin, to create the instrument.

    (2) Baghpat Home Furnishings – Timeless Handloom Artistry

    • Description: Baghpat and Meerut are renowned for their exclusive handloom home furnishings and running fabrics crafted from cotton yarn for generations.
    • Traditional Weaving: Skilled weavers in the region employ only cotton yarn in the handloom weaving process, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the products.

    (3) Barabanki Handloom Product – A Heritage of Weaving

    • Description: Barabanki and its surrounding areas house around 50,000 weavers and 20,000 looms, showcasing the significant presence of handloom weaving.
    • Weaving Tradition: The region has a rich history of handloom weaving, with the skilled craftsmen contributing to the vibrant textile industry of Barabanki.

    (4) Kalpi Handmade Paper – Time-Honored Craftsmanship

    • Description: Kalpi is known for its handmade paper, with the craft being introduced by Munnalal ‘Khaddari’, a Gandhian, in the 1940s.
    • Craftsmanship Legacy: The handmade paper-making cluster in Kalpi engages more than 5,000 craftsmen and approximately 200 units, preserving the tradition of exquisite paper-making.

    (5) Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip – Crafted Elegance

    • Description: Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashlip represents the stone craft of the region, created from the unique and soft ‘Pyro Flight Stone.’
    • Radiant White Stone: The craft utilizes radiant white-colored stone predominantly found in the region, producing exquisite craft items.

    (6) Mainpuri Tarkashi – Artistry in Brass Wire Inlay

    • Description: Mainpuri is known for Tarkashi, an art form involving brass wire inlay work on wood.
    • Traditional Use: Tarkashi was primarily used for crafting khadaous (wooden sandals) as a household necessity, replacing leather due to cultural considerations.

    (7) Sambhal Horn Craft – Unique Handmade Art

    • Description: Sambhal Horn Craft utilizes raw materials sourced from deceased animals and involves meticulous handcrafting processes.
    • Artisanal Creation: Skilled craftsmen transform raw materials into beautiful handmade products, showcasing the uniqueness of Sambhal’s horn craft.