Archive · 28 Jul 2025
GI Tag Hopes to Revive Balagarh's Traditional Boat Making
In Balagarh, India, people have been making wooden boats for over 600 years.
But now, fewer people are buying these boats because there are faster, engine-powered boats and roads.
To help the boat makers, they are trying to get a special GI tag which is like a brand name that shows the boats are authentic.
This tag could help them sell more boats, protect their work from copies, and get help from the government.
The boat makers are hopeful that this will help their business and keep their tradition alive.
Balagarh's 600-year-old boat-making industry faces decline due to mechanization and changing needs.
Efforts are underway to secure a GI tag for Balagarh boats to revive the craft.
The industry, once supporting 500 families, now has about 40 workshops and supports around 150 families.
Trademark registration has provided a measure of identity and opened new market opportunities.
The anticipated GI tag is expected to offer legal protection and promote market growth.
- Who
- Artisans of Balagarh, supported by intellectual property experts and researchers.
- What
- Efforts to revive the Balagarh boat-making industry through a GI tag.
- When
- Efforts to secure a GI tag started in December 2022; the industry faces decline in the past two decades.
- Where
- Balagarh, India.
- Why
- To protect the legacy of the craft, improve market access, and attract support.
Decline of Traditional Boat Making
GI Tag & Revitalization Efforts
Causes of Decline
Decline of Traditional Boat Making
Decline is attributed to multiple factors, including competition from mechanised boats.
GI Tag & Revitalization Efforts
The decline cannot be attributed to no singular reason.
Interest of Younger Generation
Decline of Traditional Boat Making
The younger generations are not interested in boat-making.
GI Tag & Revitalization Efforts
The younger generations' lack of interest and poor income in the trade contribute to the decline.
- Industry Age
- Over 600 years old
- Main Craft
- Dinghy (small, spoon-shaped vessel)
- Current Workshops
- Around 40
- Families Supported
- Approximately 150
- GI Application Stage
- Under examination
- Trademark Status
- Initial registration certificates issued to 19 factories
- Daily Wages (approx.)
- ₹200–300