It's actually the mark of authenticity and origin which can be associated with the heritage, tradition, and quality of a product linked to some specific region. It thus plays a very important role in saving the cultural and economic values of local goods. Within recent years, India has actively been granting GI tags for various products, which are indicative of the nation's diverse and rich cultural heritage.
What is a GI Tag?
A Geographical Indication tag is a label that certifies the product as originating from a specific location, where the quality, reputation, or other characteristic of such a product is essentially attributable to its geographical origin. GI tags are issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
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GI Tags of 2024
As of December 2024, a number of products from various Indian states have been bestowed with Geographical Indication (GI) tags, which recognizes their origin and quality. Here is the list of products that have received GI tags in 2024 along with their respective origins:
Odisha:
Kapdaganda Shawl: Handicraft by Dongria Kondh tribe from the Niyamgiri hills, Rayagada and Kalahandi districts.
Lanjia Saura Painting: The traditional murals by Lanjia Saura community from Rayagada district.
Koraput Kala Jeera Rice: Black rice from the Koraput region is called the 'Prince of Rice'.
Similipal Kai Chutney: Chutney of red weaver ants in Mayurbhanj district is a delicacy.
Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal: Brinjal variety having prickly stems of Nayagarh district.
Odisha Khajuri Guda: Date palm jaggery of Gajapati district
Dhenkanal Magji: Cheese-based sweet of Dhenkanal district
Checkout the Key Differences Between Geographical Indication and Trademark
Arunachal Pradesh
Wancho Wooden Craft: Ethnic woodcraft of the Wancho tribes.
Adi Kekir: a spice of region.
Arunachal Pradesh Nyishi Textile: Traditional textile of the tribe.
Arunachal Pradesh Monpa Handmade Paper: Handmade paper from the Monpa community
Arunachal Pradesh Adi Textile: A Traditional textile of the tribe.
Arunachal Pradesh Singpho Phalap: Traditional tea from Singpho tribe.
Arunachal Pradesh Galo Textile: The tribe's traditional textile
Arunachal Pradesh Adi Apong: Traditional rice beer in Adi tribe.
Arunachal Pradesh Dao: Traditional weapon/tool of various tribes.
Arunachal Pradesh Angnyat Millet: Millet variety from the region.
Arunachal Pradesh Marua Apo: Traditional beverage made from millet.
Arunachal Pradesh Tai Khamti Textile: Traditional textile of the Tai Khamti community.
West Bengal
Tangail Saree: Saree style with distinct weaving patterns.
Garad Saree: Traditional saree known for its unique texture.
Korial Saree: Recognized for its weaving style and traditional significance.
Kalo Nunia Rice: Rice variety from the region.
Sundarban Honey: Honey of Sundarbans region
Gujarat
Kachchhi Kharek: Date-palm produce when the dates are in the Khalal (fresh) stage.
Gujarat Suf Embroidery: Local embroidery type of Gujarat.
Ahmedabad Sodagari Block Print: Block printing work of Ahmedabad.
Surat Sadeli Craft: Local craft of Surat.
Bharuch Sujani Weaving: Weaving of Bharuch.
Kutch Ajrakh: Local block printing from Kutch.
Kutch Bandhani: Tie and dye textile art of Kutch.
Gharchola Craft of Gujarat: Locally made traditional craft popular for intricate designs.
Get to Know What was Basmati Rice Geographical Indication Case
Jammu & Kashmir
Ramban Anardana: Wild pomegranate seeds from Ramban district.
Rajouri Chikri Wood Craft: Woodcraft from Rajouri district.
Bhaderwah Rajmash: Kidney beans from Bhaderwah region.
Ramban Sulai Honey: Honey from Ramban district.
Basohli Pashmina Woolen Products: Pashmina products from Basohli region.
Udhampur Kaladi: Traditional cheese from Udhampur district.
Assam
Majuli Mask of Assam: Traditional masks from Majuli.
Assam Majuli Manuscript Painting: Manuscript paintings from Majuli.
Bodo Dokhona: Traditional attire of the Bodo community.
Bodo Eri Silk: Eri silk products of the Bodo community.
Bodo Jwmgra: Textile product of the Bodo community.
Bodo Gamsa: Traditional garment of the Bodo community.
Bodo Keradapini: Traditional craft of the Bodo community.
Bodo Thorkha: Traditional craft of the Bodo community.
Bodo Gongar Dunjia: Agricultural product of the Bodo community.
Bodo Kham: Traditional craft of the Bodo community.
Bodo Serja: Traditional craft of the Bodo community.
Legal Framework of GI Tag
The legal framework for GI tags in India is the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into effect in 2003. This Act provides legal protection to products with unique geographical origins from unauthorized use of the GI label and encourages economic benefits for local producers. Registration is carried out by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
Also, Get to Know What is meant by Infringement of Geographical Indication?
How GI Tags Help India
Geographical Indication (GI) tags safeguard the heritage of India, strengthen the local producers, boost the exports, enhance tourism, prevent forgery, and ensure the sustainable practices that safeguard the traditional crafts and agriculture products.
Preserves Heritage: They do not allow any loss of traditional knowledge, crafts, and cultural practices.
Economic Empowerment: Adds value to the local artisans' product, increasing their incomes in addition to the farmer and the producers.
Boosts Exports: GI-tagged products gain international recognition, opening new markets and increasing export potential.
Tourism Growth: Promotes regional tourism by highlighting unique cultural and agricultural products.
Prevents Counterfeiting: Ensures authenticity and protects against imitation, maintaining product integrity.
Promotes Sustainability: Encourages eco-friendly and organic production methods linked to traditional practices.
Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities
The recent GI tags highlight India's cultural diversity, but challenges persist in counterfeit protection, marketing, and awareness among producers. Ensuring quality standards and fair pricing for GI-tagged products remains crucial. However, these tags also present significant opportunities, such as boosting exports, enhancing local livelihoods, and promoting tourism. With proper government support, branding, and technology adoption, GI-tagged products can gain a competitive edge globally, fostering sustainable economic growth for local communities.
In a Nutshell
The GI tags across different states are recently added and reflect the rich cultural and artisanal diversity of India. From the terracotta crafts of Assam to the weaving traditions of Meghalaya, each product narrates a story of its origin, tradition, and craftsmanship. Recognition and support for these products not only add to the richness of our cultural fabric but also empower the communities behind them.
FAQs on Recent GI Tags in India
Q1. What is a GI Tag?
A GI Tag certifies a product as originating from a specific location, attributing its unique quality or reputation to that geographical area.
Q2. Who grants GI Tags in India?
The Geographical Indications Registry under the DPIIT grants GI tags in India.
Q3. How long is a GI tag valid?
A GI tag is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
Q4. What are the benefits of GI Tags?
They protect product originality, boost local economies, and prevent unauthorized use.
Q5. Can individuals apply for GI Tags?
No, only groups like associations or organizations representing producers can apply.
