Geographical Indication (GI) tags play a crucial role in preserving the heritage of distinctive products, such as Darjeeling Tea and Banarasi saris. Enshrined in a 1999 statute, these protections not only defend traditional crafts but also enhance local economies by allowing for higher pricing.
Patna: Geographical Indication (GI) tagging is a form of intellectual property right that identifies products originating from a specific geographical locality and possessing unique qualities, reputation or characteristics attributable to that origin.In an era of mass production and global trade, GI tags act as a crucial seal of authenticity, linking products such as Darjeeling Tea, Banarasi saris and Madhubani Painting to their roots. The significance of GI tagging extends far beyond mere labelling. It is a strategic instrument that safeguards traditional knowledge, strengthens local economies, provides legal protection and assures consumers of product quality.The system is administered under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which functions under the ministry of commerce and industry. Once granted, a GI registration remains valid for 10 years, after which it can be renewed.Chanakya National Law University registrar S P Singh said one of the primary objectives of GI tagging is the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.
Many GI-tagged products are handicrafts, agricultural products or foodstuff produced using centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.He said recognising the specific regional origin helps protect traditional knowledge from erosion or misrepresentation. Singh cited the example of Kashmir Pashmina to illustrate how such protection works. “For example, the GI tag for Kashmir Pashmina ensures that only authentic, handmade shawls from the region bear the name, protecting the skilled artisans from unauthorized imitation,” he said.Singh pointed out GI tagging directly contributes to the economic upliftment of rural artisans, farmers and weavers by transforming local crafts into premium global brands. Products with GI tags are widely perceived as superior in quality, enabling producers to command higher prices, often between 20% and 75% more than non-tagged products.Patna Law College principal Yogendra Kumar Verma said a GI tag grants exclusive rights to authorised users, thereby creating a legal framework to prevent unauthorised parties from using the registered name.
This helps curb commercial exploitation of a region’s reputation by outsiders marketing counterfeit goods.He explained producers can initiate legal action against false passing off if a registered product is misused in the marketplace, thereby protecting the integrity and reputation of the original product.Verma also highlighted the role of GI tags in addressing information asymmetry in markets. Consumers often find it difficult to verify the authenticity or quality of products in a crowded marketplace.
A GI tag therefore acts as a reliable signal of quality and authenticity.“For instance, a consumer purchasing Darjeeling Tea with the GI logo is assured it is not a blend from another region, ensuring authenticity,” he said.GI tagging has thus emerged as an important instrument for sustainable regional development. It creates a vital bridge between tradition and modern commerce, safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of small-scale producers while assuring consumers access to authentic and high-quality products.By securing the legal, economic and cultural value of regional products, GI tagging plays a significant role in strengthening the “vocal for local” initiative and promoting inclusive and ethical economic growth, Verma added.
