A scanned copy of the obverse side of the limited edition, commemorative postal cover printed by India Post celebrating the traditional shawls (Rura and Rira) of the Chakhesang Naga. As etched on the reverse side, “The motifs on the shawls are symbolic of various characteristics” of the Chakhesang people. Rura is worn by women and Rira is worn by men. (Courtesy: India Post)
‘GI tagging adds legitimacy to ownership of traditional merchandise’
Morung Express News
Dimapur | August 28
India Post released a limited edition special postal cover depicting the traditional shawls (Rura and Rira) of the Chakhesang Nagas. The commemorative cover (envelope) was released on August 28 at the Postmaster General’s office (North East-II region), Dimapur in the presence of the Chakhesang Women Welfare Society.
It was part of an initiative of India Post to commemorate and highlight GI (Geographical Indication) tagged products from various parts of India.
“Special covers release is usually done to signify an important event or milestone of any important organisations or to highlight and bring focus on that particular event or product,” stated Som Kamei, Postmaster General, NE-II Region, at the programme today.
Kamei expressed confidence that releasing the special edition cover would go a long way in promoting the historical and traditional association of the Chakhesang shawl with Nagaland to the rest of the world. According to him, a copy of the special cover will be displayed at the Philatelic Museum in New Delhi and copies will be sold all over India “thereby highlighting its GI association with Nagaland.”
He also emphasized the importance of GI tagging the various traditional shawls of the Nagas. This, he said, would add legitimacy to the long established ownership of the unique Naga shawls.
The traditional Chakhesang shawl is one of three GI tagged products from Nagaland; the other two being the Naga Mircha (also known as Naga king chilly) and tree tomato (tamarillo). An India Post official further said that the special cover would become potential collectors’ item as only 2000 copies were printed.
Earlier on August 15, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio had also released a commemorative postal cover printed by India Post portraying the Naga Mircha.
