In a significant move to boost tribal entrepreneurship and preserve indigenous heritage, the traditional bamboo craft of Kerala, Kannadippaya, was officially granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag at the Tribal Business Conclave 2025.

The event concluded on 12 November 2025 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, where Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal presented the GI certificate to Mr. Kannappan. Mr. Kannappan represented the Unarvu Pattikavarga Vividhodesha Sahakarana Sangham, a cooperative dedicated to the welfare of tribal artisans. High-ranking dignitaries, including Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram and Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Durgadas Uikey, attended the ceremony.

The recognition of Kannadippaya, often called a "Mirror Mat" for its intricate, reflective weaving patterns, marks a significant milestone for the tribal communities of Kerala. Crafted from the inner layers of specific reed bamboo found in the Western Ghats, this product is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and cultural identity.

The initiative to secure this status was strongly supported by the Bamboo Technical Support Group (BTSG) at the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), whose efforts are expected to create a lasting socio-economic impact on weavers by protecting the craft from imitation and increasing its market value.

The GI tag for Kannadippaya not only validates the artistic excellence of Kerala's tribal artisans but also ensures that the traditional knowledge passed down through generations is legally protected and commercially viable in the modern economy.

During the event, Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the government's commitment to taking local tribal products to a global stage. The Tribal Business Conclave 2025 brought together over 250 tribal entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and investors to discuss the future of indigenous business in India.