Celebrating the Spirit of Arunachal Pradesh at GI Mahotsav 2025
Arunachal Pradesh marked a historic milestone in 2025 with the launch of its first-ever Geographical Indication (GI) festival, the Arunachal GI Mahotsav. Held from February 28 to March 2, 2025, at Select City Walk, Saket, New Delhi, this groundbreaking event showcased the state’s rich heritage in textiles, handicrafts, cuisines, and agricultural products, drawing nationwide attention to its unique identity and cultural diversity.
The festival was inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in the presence of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Arunachal West MP and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, and other dignitaries. The event, themed “Craft, Cuisine, and Culture,” encapsulated the essence of Arunachal Pradesh’s vibrant traditions. The Mahotsav served as a spectacular platform to highlight the diverse talents and heritage that make Arunachal Pradesh a cultural treasure.
A Celebration of Heritage and Identity
The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 was a significant step toward promoting and preserving the cultural fabric, craftsmanship, and indigenous products of Arunachal Pradesh. The festival underscored the state’s commitment to safeguarding its rich heritage, encouraging sustainable growth, and celebrating its unique GI products.
In his keynote address, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who also served as the festival’s Chief Patron, emphasized the critical role of Geographical Indications in protecting region-specific products. He highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh, home to 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, boasts a wealth of natural resources, traditional handwoven textiles, arts, crafts, indigenous agricultural produce, and rich culinary traditions.
The registration of GI products is not just about legal protection—it is a means to drive economic growth and preserve the cultural identity of the state. The Mahotsav provided an excellent platform to showcase these distinctive products while reinforcing the state government’s dedication to promoting its indigenous heritage.
Arunachal Pradesh’s GI Journey
Arunachal Pradesh’s GI journey began in 2014 with the registration of its first two products—Arunachal Orange and Idu Mishmi Textiles & Handicrafts. Over the years, the state has steadily expanded its GI portfolio, with applications for products like Adi Kekir (local ginger), Khao Tai (Khamti local rice), and Monpa Maize (high-altitude maize).
A major milestone was achieved in 2024 when the state successfully registered 18 new GI products, bringing the total to 20 GI-recognized items. Among them were India’s first-ever GI-recognized handmade paper and millet-based wine, Marua Apo.
With ongoing efforts led by NABARD and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Rajnikant, the “GI Man of India,” 24 more GI product applications are currently in the pipeline. The state has set an ambitious goal of securing over 50 GI registrations by 2029, ensuring the growth of its heritage industries and sustainable development.
A Cultural Extravaganza
The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 was more than just a showcase of GI products—it was a grand celebration of Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural richness.
A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of the theme song, “Symphony of Arunachal,” composed to honor the state’s rich heritage. The festival opened with a mesmerizing cultural performance by the Tani Daughters, followed by the launch of the Arunachal GI Brochure, which detailed the state’s vast range of GI products.
The audience was captivated by the soulful performance of renowned singer Taba Chake, whose music added an emotional depth to the event. The grand finale featured spectacular cultural performances from:
- The Memba Cultural Troupes of Shi-Yomi
- The Ollo Log Drummers from Tirap
- A soul-stirring performance by popular artist Rito Riba
These performances enthralled the audience, further showcasing Arunachal Pradesh’s deep-rooted traditions and artistic excellence.
A Grand Conclusion
The resounding success of the Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 was a testament to the state’s dedication to preserving and promoting its unique cultural heritage.
As Arunachal Pradesh continues expanding its GI portfolio, this festival serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting products linked to the region’s landscapes and traditions. With its goal of securing over 50 GI registrations by 2029, the state is well on its way to preserving its cultural identity and empowering local communities through sustainable economic growth.
The Arunachal GI Mahotsav 2025 has set a new benchmark in celebrating the state’s rich cultural legacy, marking a historic moment for its people and their invaluable contributions.
