Kannadippaya

GI Tag Awarded: Kannadippaya, a traditional tribal handicraft from Kerala, receives Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring market protection and global platform.

Beneficiaries: GI tag awarded to Unarvu Pattikavargha Vividodesha Sahakarana Sangam and Vanasree Bamboo Craft & Vanavibhava Shekarana unit, both in Idukki district.

First of Its Kind: Kannadippaya is the first tribal handicraft product from Kerala to receive the GI tag.

Unique Features: Named “mirror mat” due to reflective pattern. Made from soft inner layers of reed bamboo, offering warmth in winter and cooling in summer.

Tribal Craft: Preserved primarily by Oorali, Mannan, Muthuva, Malayan, and Kadar tribes, plus Ulladan, Malayarayan, and Hill Pulaya artisans in Idukki, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Palakkad.

Bamboo Sources: Best quality uses Teinostachyum wightii; other Ochlandra sp. bamboo species are also used.

Historical Significance: Historically presented to kings by tribal communities as a mark of honor.

KFRI’s Role: Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) crucial in securing GI tag.

Empowerment: GI recognition will empower tribal artisans, allowing them to become entrepreneurs.

Market Challenges: Concerns raised about lack of structured market, urging government support for promotion.

Reviving Interest: Emphasizing the importance of reviving interest among younger generations through national and international visibility.

Eco-Friendly Demand: GI tag will open international markets for kannadippaya due to global demand for eco-friendly products.