In a significant development, the Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Industries Ministry has officially acknowledged the “Tangail Sari” as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, reinforcing its cultural and traditional significance.
Senior Secretary Zakia Sultana of the Industries Ministry shared this groundbreaking announcement on Wednesday, highlighting that a formal gazette notification will be issued on Thursday to solidify the Tangail Sari’s GI status.
The DPDT, operating under the Ministry of Industry and adhering to the standards set by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), plays a crucial role in recognizing and certifying GI products.
The journey towards this recognition traces back to the enactment of the Geographical Indication Products (Registration and Protection) Act in 2013. Following its implementation in 2015, the DPDT initiated the registration process for various GI products.
A pivotal moment in this journey occurred when the Tangail deputy commissioner submitted an application to the Director General of the DPDT, seeking Geographical Indications (GI) status for Tangail Sari.
However, the path to recognition faced a twist as a controversial claim emerged on the official Facebook page of India’s Ministry of Culture. The claim, asserting Tangail Sari’s origin in West Bengal, sparked widespread criticism and humor on social media.
The post asserted, “The Tangail sari, originating from West Bengal, is a traditional handwoven masterpiece,” leading to public outrage and protests across the nation. Various social media platforms witnessed expressions of dissent, and a human chain was formed in Tangail as a symbolic protest.
Despite the controversy, the official recognition of Tangail Sari as a Geographical Indication product marks a momentous achievement for the cultural heritage of the region. The DPDT’s decision reinforces the unique identity and craftsmanship associated with Tangail Sari, ensuring its protection and acknowledgment on a global scale.