• Varanasi's badge-making artisans have gained global recognition, with their products adorning military uniforms worldwide.
• The industry saw a significant boost in 2014 when the Modi government granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to their products.
• The GI certification facilitated direct contact between artisans and buyers, ensuring fair compensation and industry growth.
• The success of Varanasi's badge-making industry serves as an inspiration for other local industries, highlighting the power of local craftsmanship and the importance of government support.

In an era where globalization often threatens local industries, the story of Varanasi's badge-making artisans stands as a beacon of hope. These skilled craftsmen, who have been perfecting their art for generations, have seen their products gain international recognition. Their badges now adorn the uniforms of military personnel from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Kenya.

Varanasi, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and skilled artisans, has been the hub of this industry for over a century. However, the industry experienced a significant boost in 2014 when the Modi government granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to their products. This certification not only provided a platform for these artisans to showcase their skills at a global level but also proved instrumental in revitalizing this age-old enterprise.

The granting of GI tags was a game-changer for the badge-making industry in Varanasi. It brought about a major turnaround in the demand for 'Made in Varanasi' badges. The certification led to an increase in orders, and the artisans found themselves catering to a burgeoning demand from abroad.

The Impact of GI Certification

The GI certification also had a transformative effect on the industry's structure. It facilitated direct contact between the artisans and the buyers or exporters, eliminating the need for middlemen. This direct interaction has not only enhanced the growth of the industry but also ensured that the artisans receive fair compensation for their work.

One of the key centers for this industry is Lallapura, where over 125 artisans work tirelessly to meet the growing demand. Shadab, a local artisan, shared the intricacies of badge manufacturing for foreign armies. He expressed pride in the fact that the badges made in Varanasi are worn by military personnel on their caps. He also highlighted the positive impact of the GI tags, stating that they have brought about a major turnaround in the industry.

The success of Varanasi's badge-making industry is not an isolated incident. It is part of a larger trend where local industries, armed with GI tags, are making their mark on the global stage. This trend is a testament to the power of local craftsmanship and the importance of protecting and promoting such industries.

Government Support and Local Industries

The story of Varanasi's badge-making artisans also underscores the importance of government support in boosting local industries. The Modi government's decision to grant GI tags to these products played a crucial role in their international success. It provided the artisans with a platform to showcase their skills and helped in revitalizing an age-old enterprise.

The success of Varanasi's badge-making industry serves as an inspiration for other local industries. It shows that with the right support and recognition, local industries can not only survive in the era of globalization but also thrive and make their mark on the global stage.