Kashi To Host Unique Exhibition Of 10 GI Products During Central Zonal Council Meeting On June 24

By Ratnesh Rai

In a major boost to the traditional arts and crafts of Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi—also known as Kashi—is set to host a first-of-its-kind exhibition of 10 unique Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products on June 24, coinciding with the 25th meeting of the Central Zonal Council.

Held for the first time in Varanasi, the meeting will be attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, and Chhattisgarh CM Vishnudev Sai. The event will take place at the Taj Hotel, with the GI products exhibition forming a significant part of the cultural showcase.

GI Products on Display:

The exhibition will feature the following ten exquisite crafts from the Kashi region:

• Banaras Brocade and Saree

• Banaras Zardosi

• Banaras Pink Meenakari Craft

• Banaras Glass Beads

• Banaras Metal Repository Craft

• Banaras Metal Casting Craft

• Varanasi Wooden Laker and Toys

• Banaras Wood Carving

• Varanasi Soft Stone Jali Work

• Banaras Hand Block Print

These crafts symbolize the rich artistic heritage and skill of the local artisans, offering both national visibility and market opportunities.

Kashi at the Heart of India’s GI Map

Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the leader in GI-tagged products, with 77 registered GI tags—the highest in India—and 30 more in the pipeline. Kashi, in particular, is a key contributor with 32 GI-tagged products from the Purvanchal region alone, supporting over 20 lakh artisans and generating an annual turnover of approximately ₹25,500 crore.

A Platform for Recognition and Growth

Renowned GI crusader Padma Shri Dr. Rajni Kant, known as the “GI Man of India,” hailed the exhibition as a historic milestone for Kashi, stating:

“This event offers a national platform to local artisans and celebrates the intellectual property represented by GI products. It’s a proud moment for the rich traditions of Kashi.”

CM Yogi: Brand Ambassador for GI Revival

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been instrumental in reviving endangered crafts and positioning Uttar Pradesh’s artisans on the global map. By promoting GI-tagged products and organizing platforms like this exhibition, his government continues to empower skilled hands across the state.

State Awardee artisan Adarsh Kumar Maurya, known for his Soft Stone Jali Work, expressed his enthusiasm: “This exhibition offers an incredible opportunity to present our art to national leaders and dignitaries. It will surely enhance awareness and generate more business.”