Indian Textiles: Heritage and Geographical Indications
TOPIC CLASSIFICATION
Subject: Art & Culture / Economy | Topic: Traditional Indian Textiles Sub-topic: GI-tagged Textiles, Weaving Styles, Dyeing Techniques, Export Promotion Prelims Focus: GI-tagged textile products, weaving technique identification, thread count Mains Focus: Economic significance of traditional textiles, GI protection, government schemes
EXAMINER REASONING
Textiles appear from both cultural and economic angles. Prelims asks about GI-tagged textiles and fabrics (Banarasi, Kanchipuram, Chikankari). Mains explores the intersection of cultural heritage, export earnings, artisan welfare, and the impact of the GI Act 1999.
Core Concept
Indian textiles represent centuries-old weaving, dyeing, and printing traditions. Each region has distinct techniques, motifs, and raw material specialisation. Geographical Indication (GI) tagging has helped protect and market these unique products.
Major GI-Tagged Textiles
| Textile | GI State | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Banarasi Brocade | Uttar Pradesh | Gold/silver zari; Mughal motifs; GI 2009 |
| Kanchipuram Silk | Tamil Nadu | Pure mulberry silk; zari border; GI 2005-06 |
| Chikankari | Lucknow, UP | White thread embroidery on muslin; GI 2008 |
| Phulkari | Punjab | Vibrant floral embroidery on dupatta |
| Kantha | West Bengal |
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