Sat Dec 13 06:46:27 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has officially granted Geographical Indication (GI) tagging to Khadi products originating from Ponduru, a village in Andhra Pradesh, India. This recognition, championed by Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu and previously assured by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, provides intellectual property rights and special recognition for Ponduru Khadi, a handspun and handwoven cotton fabric historically appreciated by Mahatma Gandhi. The GI tag is expected to increase demand for these products.

News Article:

Ponduru Khadi Receives Coveted Geographical Indication Tag

SRIKAKULAM, ANDHRA PRADESH – December 13, 2025 – Ponduru Khadi, a traditional handspun and handwoven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This significant recognition, announced today, provides intellectual property rights and protects the unique origin and quality of Ponduru Khadi.

The move, championed by Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu, who had advocated for the tag in parliament, and previously pledged by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during a 2020 visit to Ponduru, is expected to boost demand for the fabric.

“This GI tagging is a major win for the weavers of Ponduru and the entire Srikakulam district,” said Mr. Rammohan Naidu in a statement posted on social media platform ‘X’. “I am confident that this recognition will significantly increase the demand for our unique Khadi products.”

The GI tag, a form of intellectual property right, ensures that the name “Ponduru Khadi” can only be used for Khadi produced in the Ponduru region, thereby safeguarding its authenticity and preventing imitation. This recognition comes a century after Mahatma Gandhi lauded the fabric, solidifying its place in Indian heritage.

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