NAMSAI, 17 Jun: Local MLA Chau Zingnu Namchoom stressed the need to strengthen cooperatives and producer institutions for value addition, branding, and marketing of GI products.

Inaugurating a 3-day capacity building programme on GI and post-GI initiatives for NGOs, farmer producer organisations, and other stakeholders engaged in GI activities here on Wednesday, Namchoom said that the state government is committed to promoting GI products. He appreciated Kolkata (West Bengal)-based Bankers Institute of Rural Development (BIRD), the apex training institute of NABARD, for organizing the programme.

BIRD faculty member Dr. Bhawana Pal highlighted the  role of geographical indications and post-GI interventions in promoting sustainable livelihoods, strengthening value chains, and enhancing market opportunities for local producers and artisans.

Namsai district planning officer Dr. Keshab Sarmah stressed the need to increase the production of GI products to meet market demand.

Referring to Khaw Tai (Khamti rice), he said, “While GI registration is a significant milestone, scaling up production without compromising quality is essential for commercial success.”

Sarmah also shared the success story of the Namsai Fresh brand, citing how effective branding and publicity have enhanced the demand for locally produced ghee.

NABARD DGM Vivek Anand highlighted NABARD’s initiatives in promoting GI registration and supporting post-GI interventions such as capacity building, branding, packaging, quality standardisation, market linkages, and awareness on Intellectual Property Rights to improve the income of producers and artisans.

Technical sessions on GI registration, post-GI initiatives, branding, marketing, intellectual property rights, and successful case studies from across the country will be conducted during the training to equip participants with practical knowledge to strengthen GI-based livelihoods.

Participants from different districts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are attending the training.