GI Tag for Banarasi Shehnai | 18 Apr 2025

Source:TH 

Varanasi’s rich cultural and craft heritage gained national recognition as the Banarasi Shehnai was granted Geographical Indication (GI) tag. 

• About the Banarasi Shehnai: 
  • It is a traditional wind instrument deeply rooted in the Banaras Gharana of Indian classical music. 
  • It gained national prominence through Ustad Bismillah Khan, who famously played the shehnai at the Red Fort on India’s first Independence Day. 
    • He elevated the Shehnai to prominence in Indian classical music with his performance at the Calcutta All India Music Conference in 1937. 
    • He was awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna in 2001. 
  • The instrument holds a divine and auspicious status, often performed at weddings, religious ceremonies, and temple rituals. 
• Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: 
  • About: A GI tag is a name or sign used on certain products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.  
    • The GI tag ensures that only authorised users or those residing in the geographical territory are allowed to use the popular product name.  
      • It also protects the product from being copied or imitated by others.  
    • A registered GI is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.  
    • GI registration is overseen by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.  
  • Legal Framework:  
    • Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999  
    • WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).