1. Introduction
In today's interconnected world, preserving the authenticity and uniqueness of local delicacies is paramount, especially as food traverses borders and continents.
Addressing this challenge, the GI tag has emerged as a potent instrument. GI, or Geographic Indication, is an intellectual property right that acknowledges a product's unique characteristics (Such as quality, reputation, and distinctiveness) and its geographical origin. It serves as a seal of approval, certifying the product's quality and reputation associated with a specific geographical location.
Obtaining a GI tag involves a rigorous process of documentation and verification. Producers are required to demonstrate how factors such as climate, traditions, and cultural history contribute to the product's unique characteristics.
On granting, GI tags serve to:
a. Both encourage and safeguard the products of specific regions,
b. Protecting the interests of producers and customers from false information regarding product origin or quality.
The first food commodity is Darjeeling tea toget a GI tag under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, with approx. 253 food products out of 547 products till now.
2. Most recent GI-tagged food.
In 2024, a product from Odisha got the Geographical Indication (GI) label on January 2nd, due to its savory taste, uniqueness, and nutritious quality. It is prepared from red weaver ants found in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. Previously, in 2018, a GI tag was given to the "Alphonso Mango" in Maharashtra, India, due to its distinctive flavor, sweetness, and scent. The fruit's remarkable quality is attributed to its traditional farming methods in the Konkan region and its geographical origin, which are recognized by the GI tag. Globally, GI tags are applied to a range of food products to protect traditional recipes, strengthen local economies, and advance sustainable food systems, as mentioned below:
However, the importance of GI tags in protecting traditional foods is still critical as customers place a higher value on authenticity and traceability when making food decisions.
3. Benefits of GI tag
3.1 Quality assurance: The GI tag is a symbol of genuine Alphonso Mangoes, ensuring
consumers buy products of the expected flavor and quality, fostering confidence and trust in
the product.
3.2 Protection of Authenticity: The GI tag guarantees the authenticity of "Alphonso Mango" by
ensuring only mangoes grown in a designated area meet quality standards, preventing
counterfeit products from misleading consumers.
3.3 Protection against exploitation & misleading consumers: Geographical Indication (GI) tags
protect products from exploitation, ensuring authenticity and quality, and preventing
misleading consumers by aligning origin and characteristics with established standards.
3.4 Economic Benefits for Producers: The GI tag boosts Alphonso Mango's market value by
highlighting its distinctive origins, increasing demand, and boosting the Konkan region's
economy.
3.5 Promote agricultural Sustainability: The GI tag promotes sustainable agriculture and
environmental conservation in the Konkan region, preserving traditional farming practices and
biodiversity of Alphonso Mango, thereby preserving the area's rich agricultural heritage.
4. Conclusion
Geographical Indication tags (GI) are essential for maintaining rural economies, safeguarding consumer trust in food authenticity, and conserving cultural legacy. They support sustainable food systems, empower local communities, and safeguard regional specialties. GI tags will become more crucial in protecting traditional foods as customers come to appreciate authenticity and traceability, which are increasingly important.
5. Reference
1. Registered Gls | Geographical Indications | Intellectual Property India (ipindia.gov.in)
2. List of geographical indications in India - Wikipedia
3. "GI tag in India". Geographical Indications Registry. Intellectual Property Office, Chennai.
4. "Registration Details of Geographical Indications" (PDF). Intellectual Property India, Government of India. Retrieved 1 May 2021.
5. "Registration Details of Geographical Indications" (PDF). Intellectual Property India, Government of India. Retrieved 24 January 2024.
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