The significance of geographical-indication (GI) tags has come into the limelight due to the recent conferment of one on Mithila Makhana by the government. This decision is believed to assist farmers in attaining the highest possible price for their premium produce.
Understanding Geographical Indication (GI) Tags
Geographical Indications (GI) function as indications that are used for identifying goods possessing specific characteristics that emanate from a definitive geographical territory. Governed by WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), GI tags are elements of Intellectual Property, along with the protection of industrial property.
To secure the improved protection of geographical indications concerning goods in India, The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act was introduced in 1999. Primarily, this tag applies to agricultural, natural, or manufactured products such as handicrafts and industrial goods.
Validity and Importance of GI Tags
A GI tag holds validity for a decade, post which it can be renewed. Such tags hold immense significance as they restrict any person or company from selling a similar product under that name, once the tag is granted. Thus, GI registration legally protects a product and prevents unauthorized usage by others. It promotes exports and assures customers of product authenticity.
The Registration Process of GI Tag
Implementing GI tags involves a systematic process, starting from filing an application, preliminary scrutiny, and examination to publication in the geographical indications journal, and culminating in registration. Any organization, association of persons, producers, or authority established by law are eligible to apply, provided they represent the interest of the producers.
Famous GI Tagged Products
Several goods that carry a GI tag owing to their distinctive characteristics include Basmati rice, Darjeeling Tea, Chanderi Fabric, Mysore Silk, Kullu Shawl, Thanjavur Paintings, Lucknow Zardozi, and many others.
Spotlight on Mithila Makhana
Mithila Makhana or Makhan, scientifically known as Euryale ferox Salisb., is a unique variety of aquatic fox nut grown in the Mithila region spread across Bihar and Nepal. It is one of the three prestigious cultural identities of Mithila, highly favored in the Kojagara festival of Maithil Brahmins celebrated for newlywed couples. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, Mithila Makhana holds a significant place in the region’s culture and cuisine.
Bihar’s GI Tagged Products
Several products from Bihar have been awarded GI tags, a step that has amplified local employment, fostered traditional knowledge and cultural expressions, conserved biodiversity, and generated tourism spin-offs. Some prominent names include Bhagalpuri Jardalu Mango, Katarni Rice, Shahi Litchi, Silao Khaja, Madhubani Painting, and Pipli Work among others.
In June 2022, the Geographical Indications (GI) Registry in Chennai accepted proposals for conferring the GI tag to Bawan Buti Saree of Nalanda, Pattharkatti stone craft from Gaya, and Hajipur’s Chiniya banana. Proposals for providing GI Tag to three sweet delicacies of Bihar – Khurma, Tilkut, and Balushahi are also under consideration.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Years Questions (PYQs)
Prelims Q. Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status? (2015)
Banaras Brocades and Sarees, Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma, Tirupathi Laddu
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (c)
Q. India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 to comply with obligations to (2018)
(a) ILO
(b) IMF
(c) UNCTAD
(d) WTO
Ans: (d)