In Hyderabad, as the Tirupati laddu faces scrutiny for alleged adulteration, skilled artisans near Tirumala are preparing to seek a geographical indication tag for their intricate wooden carvings of deities. Known for their detailed craftsmanship, the Madhavamala wood carvings feature lifelike statues of gods and goddesses, as well as decorative items like dolls, toys, house doors, windows, pooja mandapams, pillars, and furniture. The Sri Balaji Wood Carvings Mutually Aided Cooperative Society Limited, representing 510 artisans from 309 families, will file for the GI tag with the support of NABARD. This application will be the 20th GI filing from Andhra Pradesh, as confirmed by GI expert Subhajit Saha, working alongside NABARD to assist the artisans in securing this designation.