3rd Nov 2008, The Hindu
Geographical indications status for ‘Chamba rumal’
Shimla: Known around the world for its rare embroidery, ‘Chamba rumal’ (handkerchief) has been registered under Geographical Indications (GIs) of Goods Act.
In response to application for registration by the Himachal Pradesh Science, Technology & Environment, the Registrar, Geographical Registry Chennai of the Union Government issued a certificate registering ‘Chamba rumal’ as GI, official sources here said.
‘Chamba rumal’ is a pictorial craft that represents unique embroidery which originated and flourished in Chamba district in 17th and 18th centuries, a release of the State Council for Science, Technology and Environment said here.
Outlines of ‘Chamba rumal’ are made with fine charcoal and brush by painters well-versed in Pahari painting.
The handkerchief is embroidered with the technique of double satin stitches known as “do-rukha-tanka” making the designs on both sides look equally identical in content.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal had recently presented ‘Chamba rumal’ to the President Pratibha Patil which she had appreciated.
Member Secretary of State Science Council Nagin Nanda said registration of GI is a kind of community patent in which instead of an individual, the entire community of artisans, producers and other stake holders of a GI gets benefitted.
The registration confers legal protection to the producers of ‘Chamba rumal’ which in turn will not only boost the export but would also prevent the unauthorised production and use of name of ‘Chamba rumal’ by any producer outside the geographical region of Chamba, Mr. Nanda added.
Kullu shawl and Kangra tea have already been registered by the State Council for Science.