7 new products got GI tag

 

Latest Context:

Recently, 7 new products from Uttar Pradesh (UP ) got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Products that got GI tag are:

• Sambhal Horn Craft: It include handicraft products which are made from horns procured from dead animals making it environment and animal friendly.

• Baghpat Home Furnishings: It includes cotton handloom bedsheets, curtains, cushions etc which are known for traditional geometric patterns.

• Kalpi Handmade Paper: They are manufactured in an eco-friendly manner using various types of paper scraps.

• Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastshilp: Durable stone craft made of radiant coloured and off-white stone, Gaura.

• Amroha Dholak: It’s a musical instrument that is made of natural wood having hollow blocks fitted with animal skin, mostly with goatskin.

• Mainpuri Tarkash: They are known for its fine inlay work with brass wire, strips and motifs on dark sheesham extensively for furniture and boxes and mainly used for khadaous (wooden sandals).

• Barabanki Handloom: The main products are scarfs, shawls and stoles.

About the Geographical Indication (GI) tag

• It is a form of intellectual property protection granted to products that originate from a specific geographical region and possess qualities, reputation, or other characteristics that are attributable to that location.
• It is designed to protect the rights of producers and prevent others from using the geographical indication to market inferior or counterfeit products.
• A GI tag is typically granted by a competent authority or regulatory body designated by the government of a country. The authority assesses the product's connection to the specific geographic region and determines whether it meets the criteria for the GI tag. Once granted, the GI tag indicates that the product has certain unique qualities or characteristics that are derived from its geographical origin.
• It also helps consumers identify and purchase products that are genuine and associated with specific geographic regions known for their quality, heritage, or traditional production methods.
• The authority responsible for granting the GI tag usually monitors and enforces compliance to maintain the integrity and reputation of the geographical indication.
• In India, the Geographical Indication (GI) tag is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
• The Act provides for the registration and protection of GIs for goods that have a specific geographical origin within India and possess certain qualities, reputation, or characteristics attributable to that origin.
• Notable examples of products in India that have received GI tags include Darjeeling tea, Kashmir Pashmina, Kanchipuram silk sarees, Alphonso mangoes, Nagpur oranges, and many more.
• Initially, the GI Tag is valid for 10 years, after which it can be renewed for another 10 years.

The registration process for a GI tag in India involves several steps:

• Application: The producer or any association of producers, organizations or authorities representing the interest of the producers of the concerned goods can apply for a GI tag. The application is made to the Geographical Indications Registry, which is under the control of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks.

• Examination: The Registry examines the application to ensure it meets the requirements for registration. This includes verifying that the goods have a specific geographical origin and possess distinct qualities or characteristics associated with that region.

• Publication: If the application is accepted, it is published in the Geographical Indications Journal to allow for opposition from interested parties. Any person can file an opposition within the specified period.

• Registration: If no opposition is filed or if the opposition is resolved in favour of the applicant, then the GI tag is granted and the geographical indication is registered. The registration provides legal protection to the GI and the producers associated with it.

The Geographical Indication (GI) tag offers several benefits to producers, consumers, and the geographical regions associated with the products. Some of the key benefits are:

• Legal Protection: Obtaining a GI tag provides legal protection to the producers by granting them exclusive rights to use the geographical indication for the registered goods. It prevents unauthorized use of the GI by others, protecting the reputation and market value of the product.

• Market Advantage: Products with GI tags often enjoy a marketing advantage due to their unique association with a specific geographical region. The GI tag helps create a distinct identity and builds consumer trust, leading to increased demand and market recognition.

• Quality Assurance: GI tags are typically associated with specific qualities, attributes, or production methods that are unique to a geographical region. The tag assures consumers that the product possesses the desired characteristics and meets specific quality standards. It helps in maintaining consistency and ensuring the authenticity of the product.

• Preservation of Traditional Knowledge and Practices: GIs play a crucial role in preserving traditional knowledge, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. The GI system encourages producers to continue using traditional production methods, which helps safeguard traditional skills and techniques from being lost or forgotten.

• Economic Development: GIs can contribute to the economic development of a region by promoting local industries and boosting rural economies. They provide a platform for small-scale producers and artisans to showcase their products and gain access to wider markets, thereby generating employment opportunities and enhancing income levels.

• Tourism Promotion: GIs often attract tourists who are interested in experiencing and purchasing unique products associated with specific regions. The presence of GI-tagged products can enhance the tourism potential of a region, leading to increased footfall and revenue for local businesses.

• Safeguarding Against Counterfeiting: The legal protection offered by a GI tag helps combat counterfeiting and the sale of inferior products. It ensures that consumers are not deceived or misled by products claiming to be associated with a particular geographical origin but lacking the genuine qualities or characteristics.

Conclusion

Overall, the GI tag serves as a valuable tool for the protection, promotion, and development of unique products tied to specific geographical regions. It benefits producers, consumers and the local communities by preserving traditional knowledge, enhancing market opportunities and promoting sustainable economic growth.