The Kumbakonam betel leaf of Thanjavur and the Thovalai flower garland of Kanyakumari have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) Tags by the Government of India. This recognition brings the total number of GI products from Tamil Nadu to 62.
Definition:
- A sign used on products with a specific geographical origin.
- Possesses qualities or reputation due to that origin.
Application:
- Used for agricultural, natural, manufactured goods, handicrafts, and food products.
Protection:
- Provides legal protection, preventing unauthorized use of the product name.
Current Status of GI Tags in India
- First GI Tag: Darjeeling Tea (2004–05).
- Total GI Tags in India (2025): 658
- Assam: 31
- Leading States: Uttar Pradesh (most GI tags), followed by Tamil Nadu.
Key GI Products (2024):
- Uttar Pradesh: Pilkhuwa Hand Block Print, Banaras Metal Craft, Bareilly Cane Craft, etc.
- Assam: Bodo Aronai, Bodo Napham, Bodo Ondla, Bodo Gwkha – Gwkhwi, Bodo Jou Gwran, Bodo Jou Gishi, Bodo Maibra Jou Bidwi, Bodo Narzi
- Andaman & Nicobar: Nicobari Canoe, Virgin Coconut Oil, Padauk Wood Craft, Andaman Karen Musley Rice.
- Gujarat: Kutch Ajrakh.
Challenges of GI Tags in India
- Low Registration Rate: Compared to China (9,785), Germany (7,586), Hungary (7,290).
- Regional Disparity: High registrations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh; low in Jharkhand, Tripura.
- GI Violations:g., Banarasi silk imitations in Surat.
- Lack of Awareness: Rural producers unaware of GI benefits (e.g., Kagga Rice in Karnataka).
- Geographical Disputes: Multiple states claiming the same GI (e.g., Basmati rice).
- Post-Registration Issues: Lack of clarity on producer definitions and authorized user status.
Initiatives to Strengthen GI Tags
- GI Logo & Tagline: “Invaluable Treasures of Incredible India.”
- Promoting GI Exports: APEDA supports exports (e.g., Naga Mircha to UK, Assam Lemon to Italy).
- One District One Product (ODOP): Promotes key products per district.
- Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): Connects GI products with global buyers.
Way Forward
- Increasing Awareness: Highlight ‘GI Certified Goods’ in government policies.
- Post-Registration Framework: Clarify producer definitions and authorized user processes.
- Support for Small Producers: Provide export subsidies for global competitiveness.
- Resolving State Disputes: Collaborative GI claims (e.g., Kolhapuri Chappals recognized by both Karnataka & Maharashtra).
- Conservation Approach: Adapt GI products like Kanniyakumari Matti Banana to climate change.
