What is Geographical Indication Tag or GI Tag?

Updated July 18, 2022

A Geographical Indication or GI tag is a sign used on a product that has a specific geographical location. GI tags may be regarded as a certification given to the particular product for traditional methods, has certain specific qualities, or has a particular reputation because of its geographical origin.

It means the product gets GI tags due to the possession of qualities, characteristics, and popularity in a specific region. In India, Geographical Indication tag or registration came into force with effect from the 15^th September 2003. GI tags are usually given to agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.

Who Accords and Regulates Geographical Indications?

Geographical Indications are covered as an element of IPRs (Intellectual Property Rights) under Articles 1 (2) of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. At the global level, GI is governed by the World Trade Organization’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).

In India, it is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The first product in India to be accorded with GI tag was Darjeeling tea in the year 2004-05.

Who issues Geographical Indication Tag in India?

The GI tags are given as per the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act,1999. The Geographical Indication Registry functioning under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, issues the GI tag.

Darjeeling tea was the first product that got GI tag in 2004–05 in India. Since then 365 goods had been added to the list as of May 2020. Recently Kashmir saffron and black rice Manipur got this GI tag.

Benefits of Geographical Indication Tag

The Geographical Indication registration confers the following benefits:

(a) Legal protection to the products

(b) Prevents unauthorised use of GI tag products by others

(c) It helps consumers to get quality products of desired traits and is assured of the authenticity

(d) Promotes the economic prosperity of producers of GI tag goods by enhancing their demand in national and international markets

List of Geographical Indications (GI) Tags in India

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