Why in News?
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the GI tag (Geographical Indications) application fee has been reduced to ₹1,000 from ₹5,000 to support traditional artisans, especially tribal communities. At the Tribal Business Conclave, GI certificates were awarded to several tribal-linked products, boosting protection and market access.
Description:
- A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical location and possess unique qualities, reputation or characteristics due to that origin.
- A form of Intellectual Property Right (IPR).
Legal Basis (India & International):
India:
- Governed by: Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999
- Administered by: GI Registry, Chennai (under DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce & Industry)
- First GI in India: Darjeeling Tea
International:
- Paris Convention (1883) – protection of industrial property (includes GIs)
- TRIPS Agreement, WTO – mandatory protection for GIs
- Lisbon System, 1958 – protection of appellations of origin
- Madrid System – allows collective/certification marks
Key Features of GI Tag:
- Protects collective rights of producers/community.
- Cannot be used by unauthorized manufacturers.
- Helps prevent misuse, imitation, unfair competition.
- Product categories:Agricultural goods,Foodstuffs,Handicrafts,Manufactured goods,Natural products.
Eligibility:
- Any association of persons, producers, organisation, or authority representing the product can apply.
- Must show:
- Uniqueness
- Historical evidence
- Detailed production process
Protection & Duration:
- Validity: 10 years
- Renewable indefinitely
- Civil & criminal penalties for misuse under the GI Act.
Benefits of GI Tag:
- Legal protection
- Higher market value
- Rural development + local employment
- Branding of regional identity
- Conservation of traditional knowledge
- Encourages sustainable practices
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