What We Do

We advocate for the recognition and protection of Indigenous cultural rights at local, national, and international levels. This includes engaging with government bodies, participating in policy dialogues, and raising public awareness about cultural appropriation and misuse.

• Public statements on cultural misuse cases
• Engagement with Ministry of Textiles, DoNER, and state departments
• Advocacy campaigns and public awareness initiatives
• Representation in national and international forums

We conduct rigorous research to inform evidence-based policy development. Our work includes analysing existing legal frameworks, studying international best practices, and developing recommendations for strengthening Indigenous knowledge protection in India.

• Policy briefs and research reports
• Analysis of GI, IPR, and traditional knowledge laws
• Comparative studies of international frameworks
• Recommendations for legislative reform

We develop and promote ethical standards for how brands, institutions, and researchers should engage with Indigenous cultural heritage. These guidelines ensure that representation is accurate, respectful, and benefits the communities whose heritage is being used.

• Ethical representation guidelines for brands
• Usage protocols for institutions and museums
• Research ethics frameworks
• Certification and compliance advisory

We work to document, preserve, and protect traditional textile knowledge — including weaving techniques, motifs, patterns, and their cultural significance. This documentation supports both community preservation efforts and legal protection mechanisms.

• Community-led documentation initiatives
• Motif and pattern archiving
• Oral history and traditional knowledge recording
• Digital preservation and community-controlled archives

We build the capacity of communities, organisations, and institutions to engage effectively in Indigenous knowledge protection. This includes training, knowledge sharing, and facilitating partnerships between communities and supportive institutions.

• Community training on rights and legal mechanisms
• Institutional partnerships and collaborations
• Knowledge exchange between communities
• Support for community-led initiatives

We provide a recognised mechanism for addressing cultural misuse and disputes. When appropriation occurs or ethical standards are violated, NECIK serves as an authoritative body to mediate, advise, and advocate for appropriate resolution.

• Response to cultural misuse cases
• Mediation between communities and institutions
• Compliance advisory for brands and businesses
• Community submission portal for reporting misuse