Page 114 - Shawl Weaving Artisan - TT

- The applicant must file a counter-statement within 3 Hand spun yarn: Traditional Spinning Methods
two months. If not, the application is deemed • The yarn used for weaving must be entirely hand
abandoned. spun using traditional spinning techniques.
- Both sides present evidence through affidavits and • Unlike machine-spun yarn, hand spun Pashmina
documents, and a hearing is fixed.
retains its natural softness and strength, enhancing
• Step 7: Registration the fabric’s quality.
- If the application is accepted after the opposition 4 Hand-woven on traditional wooden looms
period (or if no opposition is filed), the GI is • The weaving process must be entirely manual,
registered. carried out on a traditional wooden Handloom.

- The date of filing the application is considered the • Power looms or mechanized weaving techniques
date of registration.
are strictly prohibited for a GI-certified Pashmina
- A certificate of registration is issued. shawl.
• Step 8: Renewal GI Certification process of pashmina shawls

- A registered GI is valid for 10 years and can be To obtain a GI tag, the following steps must be completed:
renewed periodically upon payment of fees.
Step 1: Registration of artisans
Criteria for obtaining GI status
• Artisans must be registered with a recognized artisans’
Criteria for obtaining GI status in pashmina shawls society, such as Tahafuz, which works to preserve the
authenticity of Kashmiri Pashmina.
To qualify for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a
Pashmina Shawl meet strict criteria regarding its material, Step 2: Testing for quality certification
fineness, craftsmanship, and certification process. Below • The shawl must be sent to the Pashmina Testing &
is a comprehensive breakdown of these requirements:
Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) for rigorous
1 Raw material: 100% Pure Pashmina Wool testing.

• The shawl must be crafted from pure Pashmina • The fiber composition, fineness, and craftsmanship
wool, which is derived from the Changthangi goat are assessed to ensure compliance with GI standards.
(also known as the Pashmina goat), found in the Step 3: GI Tagging and labelling
Ladakh region of India.
• If the shawl meets the prescribed criteria, it is awarded
• This rare and luxurious fiber forms the undercoat a unique GI
of the goat, specifically grown to withstand the
extreme cold of the Himalayas. • This tag serves as a mark of authenticity and
protection against counterfeits.
2 Fiber fineness: Ultra-Fine Quality
6 Verification: Online Authentication System
• The fiber must have an exceptionally fine diameter,
not exceeding 16 microns. • Each GI tag contains a non-copy able numerical
code, which can be verified online to confirm the
• This characteristic ensures the shawl’s softness, product’s authenticity.
lightweight texture, and superior warmth,
distinguishing it from other wool or cashmere • Buyers can cross-check the GI number on official
products. verification portals, ensuring they purchase a
genuine Kashmiri Pashmina shawl.

104 Textile & Handloom: Shawl Weaving Artisan : (NSQF - 2024) R.T. Ex.No 1.9.72&73