In a move to revitalize the traditional textile industry of Tamil Nadu, the state's handloom weavers' cooperative society, Co-optex, is seeking Geographical Indication (GI) tags for five of its most renowned products. This initiative coincides with a rise in Co-optex's profitability, indicating a positive shift in the sector. The GI tag application covers silk saris from Chinnalapatti, Koorainadu sarees, Nagarcoil lungis, Uuraiyur sarees, and Gudiyatham lungis. Each of these textiles boasts a distinct heritage and craftsmanship style, and the GI tag will safeguard their authenticity and prevent imitations.
"Obtaining GI tags will not only protect our weavers' livelihood but also establish these textiles as unique cultural markers," said R Gandhi, Minister of State for Handlooms and Textiles. The government has allocated Rs 15 lakh to support the GI tag process.