In Hyderabad, amidst concerns raised over the quality of the famous Tirupati laddu, artisans residing near the base of Tirumala are preparing to seek a geographical indication tag for their intricate wooden statues. These talented craftsmen have been sculpting detailed idols of deities like Lord Balaji for more than a hundred years. The Madhavamala wood carvings are well-known for their lifelike figures of gods and goddesses, as well as various other items like dolls, toys, and household decorations. The Sri Balaji Wood Carvings Mutually Aided Cooperative Society Limited, representing 510 artisans from 309 families skilled in making Madhavamala wood carvings, will soon apply for the GI tag with the support of NABARD. This application will mark the 20th GI filing from Andhra Pradesh, according to GI practitioner Subhajit Saha, who, together with NABARD, will assist the artisans in securing the tag.