The Care 4 Chendamangalam (C4C) initiative is in the news for providing support to the weavers affected by the 2018 Kerala floods. This article delves deeper into the significance and features of the Kerala Kasavu Sarees, as well as the geographical clusters associated with them. In addition, it covers the concept of Geographical Indication and how it is regulated in India.
The Kerala Kasavu Sarees
Kasavu refers to the zari, or the gold thread, used in the border of the Kerala saree. The uniqueness and identity of these sarees lie in their geographical origins, referred to as geographical clusters.
Geographical Clusters and Their Significance
The Indian government has recognised three significant clusters in Kerala—Balaramapuram, Chendamangalam, and Kuthampully. These clusters have been assigned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which establishes a product’s specific geographical origin and implies a certain quality or reputation attributable to that origin.
Characteristics and History of Chendamangalam Saree
The Chendamangalam saree is known for its puliyilakara border, a slim black line running parallel to the saree’s selvedge. Additional features include an extra-weft chuttikara and stripes and checks of varying width. History suggests that weaving in Chedamangalam was introduced by the Paliam family, in association with the region since the 16th century. This family, called the Paliath Achans, historically held the position of prime minister to the Maharaja of Cochin.
Kerala’s Other GI Tagged Products
Other products from Kerala that hold the Geographical Indication tag include Kasaragod Sarees, Pokkali Rice, Nilambur Teak, Wayanad Robusta Coffee, and Tirur Betel Leaf.
Understanding Geographical Indication
Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products with specific geographical origin and possessing particular qualities or reputation due to that origin. The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 protects and acknowledges geographical indications relating to goods in India. The Act is administered by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and TradeMarks, who also holds the position of the Registrar of Geographical Indications. The Geographical Indications Registry is located at Chennai.
The Validity and Renewal of Geographical Indication
The registration of a geographical indication is valid for a period of 10 years, with an option for renewal for further 10-year periods. This method of protection is also part of the World Trade Organisation’s Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
