The world is full of miracles and treasures. Treasures that grow, can be produced or are manufactured in specific locations are known as Geographical Indications of that region.

Their production method and place of origin is of utmost importance and these attributes are being preserved for ages by the locals in each of these regions, around the world. The region gains fame due to the reputation of these products, as the quality and purity is unmatchable.

Certain examples of much sought after treasures are Indian spices, China silk, Dhaka muslin, Georgian wine, Venetian Glass. The reputation of these products due to their special characteristics was carefully built up and has been painstakingly maintained by the artisans/ farmers/craftsmen of that region.

These special characteristics can be due to various factors that are specific to the place of origin- ranging from specific agro-climatic conditions, soil type, water quality or any environmental peculiarity. Factors may also include special manufacturing tools, specific mechanisms and human skills honed by years of traditional knowledge to maintain quality and reputation of the product.

Interest in exploring the potential of GIs has increased in recent years across the world. It has been triggered by the obligation, under the TRIPS Agreement, for Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to protect GIs.

What is a Geographical Indication?

• It is a product that originates from a definite geographical territory.
• They are classified into agricultural, natural, manufactured goods, handicrafts and food stuffs.
• The goods should be grown or produced or processed or prepared in a specific territory.
• It should have a special quality or characteristics that define it and are linked to the place of origin.

India is a land of diversity and abundance, several regions across the country are famous for superior products that originate there. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), India enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999 has come into force with effect from 15th September 2003. India has 344 invaluable products registered till 30th June 2019. The GI tag is an authentication of quality and provides protection, to the holders, against products that are fake or of lower standards.

Darjeeling Tea was the first Indian product to get the geographical indication tag in 2004. The famous beverage got the recognition along with protection for both its name and logo.

Some GIs from across India are:

• Kangra Paintings & Kullu Shawl of Himachal Pradesh
• Madhubani Paintings & Bhagalpur Silk of Bihar
• Chikan Craft of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• Banaras Brocades and Saris of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
• Blue Pottery of Jaipur, Rajasthan
• Kutch Embroidery of Gujarat
• Chanderi Fabric of Madhya Pradesh
• Pochampalli Ikat &Tirupathi Laddu of Andhra Pradesh
• Kancheepuram Silk & Thanjavur Paintings of Tamil Nadu 

Get more information & the complete list of GI tagged products of India

This article was originally published on LinkedIn on June 30, 2019