Bengal handcrafted gold jewellery, commonly termed as 'Kalkate' nationally for its unique designs, may get Geographical Indication (GI) tag and the state government has already initiated the process in this regard.
"We are trying to get GI tag for our 'Kalkate' gold jewellery. This is good alternative to patent which is more complex to receive. This will offer protection to our traditional gold jewellery from being copied," West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra said here today at a session with the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council.
This will help to increase the export of jewellery from this region.
IIT-Kharagpur is providing technical support to put forward the case before the appropriate forum.
West Bengal has received GI tag for seven other products like Darjeeling tea.
Mitra today assured that the government will offer support to the gems and jewellery industry for their job creation potential, which is greater than information technology industry.
"TCS is building larger campus here than the one in Bangalore. Cognizant is also expanding where 15000 more hiring will take place," Mitra said.
Bengal government has decided to forgo the 1.5 per cent of state GST for the exporters which is opposed by the council, he added.
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