1. What happened?

Ambaji marble, sourced from the Ambaji region in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
  • The tag was granted by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • The application was filed by the Ambaji Marbles Quarry and Factory Association.
This GI status officially recognises Ambaji marble as a product with unique qualities linked to its geographical origin. WHAT IS GI TAG? A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a label given to products:
  • that originate from a specific location,
  • have unique characteristics, and
  • enjoy a reputation due to that origin.
Examples: Darjeeling tea, Kanchipuram silk, Mysore sandalwood.

WHAT DOES GI TAG HELP IN?

  • protecting the product from imitation
  • improving its market value
  • boosting exports
  • supporting local communities and industries
WHY IS AMBAJI MARBLE SPECIAL? Ambaji marble is known for:
  • Pure white colour
  • High shine and beauty
  • Superior strength
  • High calcium content
  • Exceptional durability
According to experts, Ambaji’s marble mines are almost 1,200–1,500 years old.

HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE

  • Used in the Dilwara Jain Temples, Mount Abu
  • Used widely in religious structures in India
  • Believed to be used in the Ram Temple, Ayodhya
  • Exported for temple construction in Miami, Los Angeles, Boston, New Zealand, and England
Industrialists note that while stones in even the Taj Mahal show signs of ageing, Ambaji marble has not lost its purity, even after centuries. BENEFITS OF GI TAG The GI tag will:
  • Protect the identity of Ambaji marble
  • Increase demand in global markets
  • Boost exports
  • Strengthen local industries
  • Support artisans and quarry workers
  • Prevent cheaper or fake stones from being sold as Ambaji marble