Meerut’s 140-year-old bugle secures GI tag, giving makers new global push

Meerut’s traditional bugle, a 140-year-old symbol of the city’s musical craftsmanship, has now received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, giving the instrument formal recognition and boosting its global identity. Makers say the certification is expected to increase demand from military bands, academic institutions and ceremonial units.

The bugle, a simple brass wind instrument used to signal the start of movements or events, carries a deep historical imprint. 

The bugle’s story is closely linked to the development of India’s military traditions. During the British era, it served as a crucial signalling device in battle, with its sharp notes carrying over long distances to relay commands. As India’s armed forces modernised, the bugle continued to hold a place of prominence and eventually became the leading instrument in most regimental and ceremonial bands.

Even today, a large share of the bugles used by the army, paramilitary units and police organisations reportedly come from Meerut. The city remains the main source for training institutions as well, supplying instruments to several military and police academies across the country.