About The CREATE Initiative in Leh: UPSC Current Affairs

CENTRE FOR RURAL ENTERPRISE ACCELERATION THROUGH TECHNOLOGY (CREATE)

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Context:

The Union Minister for MSME inaugurated the Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE) in Leh.

About The Centre for Rural Enterprise Acceleration through Technology (CREATE)

This initiative aims to support rural business development in Ladakh by providing advanced facilities and training for local artisans.
The centre focuses on providing training and skill development in three main areas:
- - Pashmina Wool Roving Facility to improve the quality and efficiency of Pashmina wool processing.
  - Essential Oil Extraction Training for developing production facilities for extracting essential oils from roses and other flowers.
  - Bio-processing of Fruits and Other Raw Materials to boost local economies.

Objectives of CREATE

To increase the efficiency and output of local artisans and small enterprises by providing modern facilities and training,
Use modern machinery and techniques to enhance the quality of products like Pashmina wool, essential oils, and bio-processed goods.
To create new economic opportunities by promoting business creation and improving product quality.
Support traditional artisans by promoting their skills and ensuring they benefit from modern advancements.

Significance of the Initiative

Ladakh's severe topographical and meteorological conditions have hampered economic progress.
- - CREATE's focus on local resources and traditional crafts resolves these issues.
It promotes the diversification of the local economy by supporting the growth of new industries and strengthening existing ones, reducing dependency on traditional sectors.
The training programs will provide local artists with new skills and techniques, encouraging innovation and allowing them to enter larger markets.
Focusing on local resources and sustainable practices aligns with environmental protection and sustainable economic growth goals.

About Pashmina Wool

●Pashmina is Geographical Indication (GI) certified wool from the Kashmir region.

●The wool is obtained from the Changthangi goats (Capra Hircus) domesticated in Ladakh.

●The raw wool is harvested by the Changpa tribes of Ladakh, a semi-nomadic community living in Ladakh.

●Pashmina is one of the finest and highest quality wools in the world.

●Pashmina shawls are expensive due to their fine quality and the hard work involved in making them.

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PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements in the context of the Geographical Indication (GI):

1. It was formally introduced in 1994 as part of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement.

2. In India, the GI tag is for an indefinite period if the product is produced within the defined geographical area.

3. GI products are more affordable than non-GI products.

How many of the above statements are incorrect?

A) Only one

B) Only two

C) All three

D) None

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct:

The Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement was part of the WTO framework established in 1994 to protect Geographical Indications. This agreement set the standards for the protection of GIs globally.

Statement 2 is incorrect:

In India, GI protection is provided for an initial 10-year period, which can then be renewed for an additional 10-year period. While GI protection can be expanded forever, it is not automatic and must be renewed periodically.

Statement 3 is incorrect:

Due to their distinct characteristics, reputation, and traditional manufacturing processes, GI products are usually more costly than non-GI items.