Importance of GI Tag for Tribes in India

Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a unique type of intellectual property where a legal recognition is given to products originating in a specific geographical region. A GI tag refers to the quality and speciality of the product with respect to its place of origin. Producers of geographical regions can apply for a GI tag for food products, agricultural products, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, textiles, etc. Articles 1(2) and10 of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and Articles 22 to 24 of the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement specify about Geographical Indication as a part of Intellectual Property. There are guidelines issued by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade regarding the requirement and process of registration of a Geographical Indication. The importance and current status of Geographical Indication (GI) for tribes in India has been emphasised in this research paper. Furthermore, this research paper also looks into challenges faced by the tribes in getting the GI tags registered. This is to highlight the importance of registering the products with their Geographical Identification tags to preserve their authenticity and originality