Ponduru Khadi Gets GI Status

Why in News?

Ponduru Khadi, a traditional handspun and handwoven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Background & Context

India’s handloom and khadi traditions represent not only cultural heritage but also a critical source of rural livelihoods and sustainable production. The GI tag mechanism, under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, aims to protect products that have a distinct regional identity, reputation, and traditional know-how.

Khadi, closely associated with India’s freedom movement and Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of self-reliance (Swadeshi), holds immense historical significance. Ponduru Khadi stands out among khadi traditions for preserving ancient artisanal practices that have survived industrialisation and mechanisation.

About Ponduru Khadi

• Type: Handspun and handwoven cotton fabric
• Local Name: Patnulu
• Region: Ponduru village, Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh
• Scheme Linkage: Nominated under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme for Srikakulam

Historical Significance

• During the pre-Independence period, Mahatma Gandhi praised Ponduru Khadi in Young India, the national weekly he edited.
• It symbolised ethical production, rural self-sufficiency, and dignity of labour.

Key Characteristics of Ponduru Khadi

1. Cotton Variety

Ponduru Khadi is made using indigenous cotton varieties:

• Hill cotton
• Punasa cotton
• Red cotton

All cotton is locally grown in and around Ponduru, strengthening local agrarian–artisan linkages.

2. Entirely Manual Production

• From cotton cleaning to spinning and weaving, no mechanisation is involved.
• The process preserves traditional skills passed down through generations.

Unique Features of Ponduru Khadi

1. Fish Jawbone Cotton Cleaning

• Cotton is cleaned using the jawbone of the Valuga fish.
• This technique improves fibre softness and durability.
• Uniqueness: This practice is exclusive to Ponduru and is not found anywhere else in the world.

2. Single-Spindle Charkha

• Ponduru is the only place in India where spinners still use single-spindle charkhas.
• This ensures finer yarn quality and traditional authenticity.

Significance of GI Tag for Ponduru Khadi

• Legal Protection: Prevents misuse and imitation of the product name
• Economic Empowerment: Enhances income security for local weavers and spinners
• Cultural Preservation: Safeguards traditional techniques and indigenous knowledge
• Market Access: Improves branding, exports, and premium market positioning
• Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat: Promotes local production and sustainable livelihoods

Geographical Indication (GI): Quick Facts

• Definition: A GI is a sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical area and possess qualities or reputation due to that origin.
• Legal Framework: GI Act, 1999
• Administering Authority: Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM)
• Validity: 10 years (renewable)