Gharchola, a traditional wedding sari from Gujarat, has received the GI tag.

• Historically crafted in auspicious colors like red, maroon, green, and yellow, it is traditionally worn during Hindu and Jain weddings.

About GI Tag

• GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. 
• In India, it is given under the Geographical Indications (GI) of Goods Act, 1999.
  • The registration of a geographical indication is valid for a period of 10 years, which can be renewed.
• Benefits: It confers legal protection to Geographical Indications in India preventing ocusingion use by others in turn boosting exports.

Former Chile President, Michelle Bachelet is to be conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development, 2024. 

• She would be awarded for her work to improve gender equality, human rights and democracy. 

About Indira Gandhi Prize

• Awarded annually to a person or organization in recognition of creative efforts towards promoting international peace and disarmament, etc. 
• It consists of an award of Rs.10 million and a trophy with a citation. 
• Scrutiny of proposals and final selection is made by a jury of 5 to 9 eminent persons, named by the Chairperson of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. 

Naga writer Easterine Kire’s “Spirit Nights” wins Sahitya Akademi Award 2024.

About Sahitya Akademi

• Genesis: Formally inaugurated in 1954 and Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• Ministry:  An autonomous body under Ministry of Culture.
• Role: Undertakes literary activities in 24 languages (22 scheduled languages and English and Rajasthani).
  • Honoured as ‘India’s National Academy of Letters’.
• Its major awards: Sahitya Akademi Award, Bhasha Samman.