Srinagar: The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, on Saturday launched the Geographical Indication (GI) QR Code Management System at its Quality Control Division (QCD) in Srinagar, expanding GI certification to a range of traditional non-textile and languishing crafts.
With the launch, the QCD has become the third GI laboratory in Jammu and Kashmir after the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)-accredited Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) and Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) laboratories.
Officials said the laboratory will now test and affix GI labels on products including Wagguv, Gabba, felted Namdah, Walnut Wood Carving, Chain Stitch, Khatamband and Crewel.
According to the department, the initiative is aimed at certifying the authenticity of traditional handmade products and improving their marketability. It is expected to support crafts such as Namdah and Wagguv by enhancing their visibility and brand value in domestic and international markets.
The refurbished QCD laboratory, recently inaugurated by the Chief Minister, has been equipped with a high-resolution digital microscope and other testing equipment. The upgradation was funded by the Ministry of Textiles under the National Handicrafts Development Programme and the Union Territory Capex Budget.
Officials said the GI QR labelling system would complement ongoing efforts in skill development, packaging and promotion of traditional crafts. The department has asked artisans, weavers and other stakeholders to avail the certification facility at the QCD laboratory on payment of nominal user charges.
