The recent Covid-19 lockdown negatively impacted the sales of a particular grape variety known as Bangalore Blue. This unique grape, grown in specific regions of India and characterized by its distinctive flavor, has faced significant challenges due to the imposed restrictions.
Bangalore Blue: A Unique Grape Variety
Bangalore blue is a specialty grape characterized by its ‘foxy’ flavor, which is the result of a flavor substance named methyl anthranilate. This grape variety is primarily cultivated in three regions within India – Bangalore Urban, Chikkaballapur, and Kolar districts. The cultivation is quite specific as it requires red sandy loam soil, a day temperature of approximately 35-37 degrees Celsius, and a night temperature ranging between 12-15 degrees Celsius. These conditions are unique to Bangalore and the surrounding territories.
These climatic conditions allow the grapes to develop their typical dark purple color, making them recognizable. Bangalore Blue grapes primarily find use in the preparation of juice and wine/spirit, rather than being consumed raw.
The Geographical Indication Status of Bangalore Blue
The Bangalore Blue received the Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2013, a significant milestone for this grape variety. But what does the GI status indicate?
The Geographical Indication is an identifier used to designate goods with distinct characteristics that originate from a particular geographical territory. In India, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999 provides for the registration and enhanced protection of geographical indications related to goods.
The Act falls under the administration of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and TradeMarks, also acting as the Registrar of Geographical Indications. The Geographical Indications Registry, responsible for registering these unique goods, is located in Chennai.
Once granted, a geographical indication registration is valid for a decade and can be renewed for further ten-year periods. This registration is also recognized under the World Trade Organisation’s Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement.
Examples of Goods with Geographical Indication Status
Several goods have received the Geographical Indication status, much like the Bangalore Blue. These include Kerala’s Tirur Vetilla, Dindigul Lock, and Kandangi Saree from Tamil Nadu, along with Odisha Rasagola.
Such products display unique characteristics that are inherent to their geographical origins, making them distinct from other goods in the market. This distinction coupled with the specific GI status gives these products a unique identity, promoting their individual heritage and contribution to the cultural diversity and richness of India.
It’s clear that the Bangalore Blue grape is not just a simple fruit but a product of particular geographical factors, cultivation methods, and inherent qualities. However, the Covid-19 lockdown has offered significant challenges, demonstrating how external factors can impact local industries, economies, and traditions associated with such uniquely identified goods.
