Seven Products Receive GI Tags

Seven Products Receive GI Tags

Subject :Science and technology

Section: Intellectual property Rights

Context:

Seven products from across India including four from Rajasthan were given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai.

What are GI Tags?

• GI tags are intellectual property rights granted by, Geographical Indications Registry.
• GI tags have a duration, typically renewable after a certain period (e.g., every 10 years) to maintain their validity and protection.
• They indicate the specific geographical origin of a product.
• GI tags protect the product’s unique qualities linked to its region.
• Once granted, the GI tag is used as a label to certify the product’s authenticity and origin.

What are the advantages of granting GI Tags?

• Helping consumers identify authentic products.
• Protection of unique regional products and traditional knowledge.
• Recognition and preservation of cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
• Enhancement of product quality and authenticity assurance for consumers.
• Prevention of unauthorized use and imitation, safeguarding local producers.
• Boost the rural economy and employment opportunities in specific regions.
• Promotion of tourism and cultural exchange based on regional specialties.
• Increased market value and competitiveness for GI-tagged products.
• Facilitation of fair trade and export opportunities for local communities.

What are the challenges for GI Tags?

• Misuse and Counterfeiting: Imitation threats, consumer deception.
• Enforcement Issues: Monitoring challenges, weak protection.
• Geopolitical Disputes: Territorial conflicts, delays in recognition.
• Lack of Awareness: Limited consumer knowledge, communication difficulty.
• Financial Constraints: High costs, limited access for small-scale producers.
• Traditional vs. Modern Practices: Balancing traditional and modern methods.
• Competition and Market Access: Challenges from non-GI products.
• Evolution of Products: Changing traditions, diluted uniqueness.
• Globalization and Homogenization: Risk of standardization.
• Climate Change and Environmental Factors: Impact on production and characteristics.

Who provides GI Tags and under what law?

• GI tags are provided by the Geographical Indications Registry, located in Chennai, India.
• The registry operates under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

What are all products given GI Tags?

Goa
1	Goa Mankurad Mango	All Goa Mango Growers Association filed the application. The mango was originally named “Malcorada” by the Portuguese, later evolving into “Mankurad” aamo (mango in Konkani). Renowned for its unique flavor and color.
2	Goan Bebinca	Application filed by All Goa Bakers and Confectioners Association. Bebinca is a traditional Indo-Portuguese dessert, often called the “Queen of Goan desserts“. It is a layered pudding enjoyed during various celebrations
Uttar Pradesh
1	Jalesar Dhatu Shilp (Metal Craft)	Located in Jalesar, Etah district, Uttar Pradesh, famous for decorative metal craft and brassware. Over 1,200 small units are engaged in crafting intricate metal pieces. The craft involves skilled artisans creating brassware using traditional techniques.
Rajasthan
1	Udaipur Koftgari Metal Craft	Craftsmen practice the ancient art of Koftgari for making ornamental weaponry. The process includes etching designs, embedding gold and silver wire, and meticulous polishing.
2	Bikaner Kashidakari Craft	Kashidakari work is primarily done on marriage-related objects, especially gift items, using mirror work. The craft showcases fine craftsmanship and intricate mirror-based designs.
3	Jodhpur Bandhej Craft	An art of tying and dyeing fabrics. Artisans print various patterns on fabrics using the tie and dye method. Bandhej fabrics are known for their vibrant colors and unique designs.
4	Bikaner Usta Kala Craft	Also known as gold nakashi work or gold manauti work. Craftsmanship prominently features golden colors. The craft has a rich historical significance and is known for its long-lasting quality.