Hyderabad, Feb.27 (RAHNUMA): In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, the “GI on Wheels” programme was launched at the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS), Hyderabad on Friday by Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma.
The programme was attended by Minister for Transport and BC Welfare, Ponnam Prabhakar, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of TGSRTC, Nagi Reddy, and Hyderabad District Collector, Hari Chandana Dasari.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor stated that the primary objective of the initiative is to create awareness among the public about Geographical Indication (GI) tagged art forms and to promote them widely.
He observed that as a young state, Telangana must strengthen its cultural identity. Emphasising that culture is the soul of society, he noted that sustainable development is not possible without cultural awareness. Jishnu Dev Varma further added that such initiatives would inspire youth towards traditional arts and enhance recognition for artisans.
Minister for Transport and BC Welfare, Ponnam Prabhakar, stated that the programme is the outcome of the visionary initiative of the Governor. He reiterated that the state government is committed to promoting, marketing, and expanding GI products. He highlighted that such efforts will create livelihood opportunities for rural artisans and improve their economic conditions. Ponnam namaste assured full support from TGSRTC in implementing and scaling up the initiative across the State.
As part of the programme, six prominent GI-tagged handicrafts of Telangana have been artistically showcased on buses, including Pochampally Ikat, Warangal Dhurries (Carpets), Karimnagar Silver Filigree, Narayanpet Sarees, Cheriyal Scroll Paintings, and Nirmal Paintings. These art forms, representing the skill and craftsmanship of Telangana artisans, will now gain wider visibility across towns and villages through public transport. The Minister emphasised that the initiative aims to transform public transport into a creative platform for promoting the State’s rich cultural heritage.
Vice chairman & managing director of TGSRTC, Nagi Reddy, stated that the initiative reflects the cultural diversity of Telangana and is inspired by the Hon’ble Governor’s vision. He noted that showcasing GI art on buses would bring culture closer to the people while encouraging artisans.
The designs displayed on the buses were created by students of Jawaharlal Nehru Architecture and Fine Arts University (JNAFAU). On the occasion, the students were presented with cash prizes and mementoes. Subhajit Saha, who contributed to securing GI recognitions was also felicitated. Artisans representing the six GI crafts were also honoured.
Subsequently, the Governor, Minister, District Collector, and TGSRTC officials jointly flagged off the specially designed buses showcasing GI handicrafts.
A Geographical Indication (GI) is a collective intellectual property right that identifies products as originating from a specific region, reflecting unique characteristics, skills, and traditions. Telangana currently has 18 GI-tagged products. GI recognition plays a crucial role in preserving traditional arts and heritage, preventing imitation, providing recognition to artisans, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods.
Senior officials of TGSRTC, including Executive Directors Rajasekhar and Khusro Shah Khan, Regional Managers Srilatha and Sudha Parimala, representatives of JNAFAU, artisans, and other officials were present at the programme.
