Traditional Lepcha Musical Instruments Receive GI Tag

Why in News?

The Government of India has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to two traditional musical instruments of the Lepcha community of Sikkim — Tungbuk and Pumtong Pulit.
This recognition marks an important step in promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Lepcha tribe at both national and international levels.

Key Points

1. Date of Announcement: November 5, 2025
2. Category: Musical Instruments
3. GI Registration Authority: Geographical Indications Registry, Chennai (Government of India)
4. Award Ceremony: First Tribal Trade Conference held in New Delhi
   • Organized by: Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, and Ministry of Commerce & Industry
   • Chief Guests: Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Jual Oram

Details of the Instruments

GI Application and Contributions

• Applicants: Ugen Palzor Lepcha (for Tungbuk) and Namgyal Lepcha (for Pumtong Pulit)
• Supporting Organization: NABARD, Gangtok — provided both technical and financial assistance during the GI registration process.
• Duration: Approximately two years to obtain the GI tag.

Significance of the GI Tag

1. Provides national recognition and legal protection to these traditional instruments.
2. Promotes cultural revival of Lepcha musical traditions.
3. Enhances awareness among youth about indigenous art forms.
4. Creates new livelihood opportunities for traditional artisans.  

• Location: Primarily in Sikkim, Darjeeling (West Bengal), and parts of Bhutan.
• Identity: Indigenous people of Sikkim.
• Culture: Deeply nature-centric spiritual beliefs, rich traditions of folk music, and craftsmanship in traditional instruments.

Additional Information

• Legal Framework: Governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
• Authority: Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
• Other GI Products from Sikkim: Sikkim Tea, Darjeeling Tea, and Sikkim Orange.