Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Pema Khandu, remarked that the festival provides a platform for displaying the state’s finest Geographical Indication (GI) products on a national scale.
To date, 20 products from Arunachal Pradesh have received GI tags, and the state aims to achieve 50 GI-tagged products by 2030. “This festival is a tribute to our land’s identity and the dedication of our artisans and farmers. Let us unite to promote, support, and take pride in our cultural treasures,” he said.
Various food items from Arunachal Pradesh on display.
Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, who inaugurated the festival on Friday (February 28), highlighted that it is showcasing 20 of Arunachal Pradesh’s prized products while offering a national stage for its craftsmen, entrepreneurs, and farmers.
Do witness Arunachal’s vibrant music, culture, cuisine and traditions at the Arunachal GI Mahotsav at Select CityWalk, Delhi. pic.twitter.com/mdjWF8Cakd
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) February 28, 2025
He also noted that Arunachal Pradesh is home to a rich linguistic heritage, with over 100 distinct dialects.
“The Ministry of Education is dedicated to producing primers to preserve and promote all indigenous languages of Arunachal Pradesh. May this lively celebration inspire us to honour, cherish, preserve, and promote the rich cultural heritage of Bharat,” he stated.
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Pradhan expressed his admiration for the Arunachal Pradesh government’s efforts to bring the state’s culture, heritage, and craftsmanship to the capital, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Purvodaya’ vision to spread the prosperity of the ‘Ashtalakshmi’ states worldwide.
“The Arunachal GI Festival is not only a reflection of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ but also a bridge between the past and the future, demonstrating that ‘heritage and development’ can prosper together,” he remarked.
Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, and a native of Arunachal Pradesh, praised the festival as a true celebration of the state’s incredible heritage.
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He said that the colours, craftsmanship, and stories behind each GI-tagged product reflect the passion, legacy, and identity of the people of Arunachal.
“From intricate textiles to unique GI-tagged produce, this festival honours the artisans and farmers who have preserved their craft for generations.
“Initiatives like this open new doors for our artisans, connecting their creations to the world. I’m truly delighted to witness this celebration of heritage, skill, and opportunities,” he added.
The event was held to showcase the vast potential of Arunachal Pradesh’s artisans, weavers, and farmers, empowering them through global recognition and expanded market opportunities.
“The GI Mahotsav plays a vital role in promoting and preserving our indigenous products, while also strengthening Arunachal’s position in national and international markets. Let’s continue to support our artisans, traditional industries, and cultural heritage,” said Chief Minister Khandu.
