Geographical Indication tag: Manipur black rice, Gorakhpur terracotta and Kovilpatti Kadalai mittai

Recently, Geographical Indication tag has been given to black rice of Manipur, Terracotta of Gorakhpur, and Kadalai Mittai of Kovilpatti. In August 2019 Odisha’s Rasgulla has been tagged. First of all, we should know about the GI tag.

What is geographical Indication?

Geographical indication is a name that is used for products and which have a specific geographical location. It acts like a product that has its origin place and the product must have some qualities to be tagged in G.I.

Darjeeling tea was the first product to be tagged in G.I.

Who is the Authoritative Body?

World Trade Organisation (WTO) started the geographical indication of good Act, 1999 under Article 22(1) of TRIPS agreement. It come into effect from 15th September, 2003. India has been a member of WTO since 1 January 1995. In India GI is controlled by the Registrar of Controller General of patents, designs, and trademarks.

Why it is important?

It provides help to producers by which they can differentiate their products from the other product which have goodwill, special quality and reputation in the market. It is helpful in trade between countries which also bring to employment. It allows genuine producers to capture the market and creates entry barriers for fakes. It is beneficial for farmers also. They get recognition from their products. It is helpful in export earning, promotion of tourism, etc.

Which state has been tagged maximum GI?

Karnataka is the maximum GI tagged state in India. However, when geographical area is factored in, Kerala has the highest. Products having multiple GI tagged is not included.

Tamil Nadu – maximum - handicraft GI

Maharashtra – maximum – agricultural products

Which products have the highest tag?

Banana, coffee, mango, shawl, Sarees & fabrics, craft items, Painting, Rice, Toys, Embroidery.

Manipur Black rice also is known as “Chakhao” scented glutinous rice eaten during community feasts and also used for traditional medicinal purposes.

Gorakhpur terracotta: Potters make various animal figures with hand-applied ornamentation. There are around 1000 varieties of terracotta work designed by the craftsmen.

Kovilpatti Kadalai Mittai: It is a candy made of peanuts held together with glistening syrup, and topped with wisps of grated coconut dyed pink, green, and yellow.

All these GI tagged products will get recognition in the International market which will increase the market trade, tourism, employment with other countries also.