Context: Over 60 products from across India have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags, marking the largest batch of GI tags awarded at once.
Some of the Major products GI tagged are:
Region
Product
Description
Assam
Asharikandi Terracotta Craft
Asharikandi Terracotta Craft refers to a traditional craft form practised in the village of Asharikandi in Assam. It involves the creation of pottery and other decorative items using locally sourced terracotta clay.
Pani Meteka Craft
It refers to a type of traditional craft that involves weaving straw or reeds into decorative objects such as baskets, hats, and ornaments.
Sarthebari Metal Craft
Exquisite metalwork, particularly in brass and bell metal.
Jaapi (Bamboo Headgear)
Traditional Assamese hat made from bamboo and leaves.
Mishing Handloom Products
Textiles woven by the Mishing community
Bihudhol
Traditional drum used in Assam’s Bihu celebrations.
Bodo Dokhona
Traditional attire of Bodo women.
Bodo Eri Silk
Fabric made from the silk of Samia ricini, known as the fabric of peace
Bodo Jwmgra
A traditional scarf is part of Bodo culture.
Bodo Gamsa
The traditional dress worn by Bodo men.
Bodo Thorkha
Musical instruments are integral to Bodo culture.
Bodo Sifung
Long flute used in Bodo music.
Varanasi
Banaras Thandai
Traditional drink made with milk, nuts, seeds, and spices.
Banaras Tabla
Percussion instrument rooted in Banaras’ musical tradition.
Banaras Shehnai
Wind musical instrument synonymous with Banaras’ cultural ethos.
Banaras Lal Bharwamirch
A specific variety of stuffed red chilli is typical of Banaras.
Banaras Lal Peda
A sweet delicacy made from condensed milk, famous in Banaras.
Tripura
Pachra-Rignai
Traditional dress is worn by women in Tripura on special occasions.
Matabari Peda
Sweet preparation is unique to the Matabari area in Tripura.
Meghalaya
Garo Textile Weaving
Textiles woven by the Garo community, incorporating traditional motifs and techniques.
Lyrnai Pottery
Traditional pottery from the Lyrnai area, known for its distinctive style and utility (also called Black Pottery of Meghalaya)
A Geographical Indication (GI) is a designation used on products with a specific geographical origin, indicating qualities or reputation linked to that origin. To date, around 635 products in India have been given the GI tag. The first GI tag in the country was given two decades ago to the famous Darjeeling tea.
Internationally recognized under the Paris Convention, GI is part of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), covered by the WTO’s TRIPS Agreement, Madrid Agreement, and Lisbon Agreement.
In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999. Administered by the Registrar of Geographical Indications (RGI), it identifies agricultural, natural, or manufactured goods, providing legal protection for 10 years (renewable). The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, oversees GI registration, offering protection against unauthorized use, promoting exports, and ensuring quality and distinctiveness.