Introduction: A Global Stage for Local Wonders
Imagine sipping the finest Darjeeling tea, wrapped in a luxurious Pashmina shawl, while savoring the rich flavors of Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes. These are just a few of India’s treasures protected under the Geographical Indication (GI tags) , a status that preserves their authenticity and economic value.
India, already home to 605 GI-tagged products, is now setting an ambitious target—10,000 GI tags by 2030. Announced by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal at the GI Samagam event in New Delhi, this initiative aims to boost local economies, preserve cultural heritage, and showcase Indian craftsmanship on a global scale.
As reported by Corp India News, the government is forming a dedicated committee to oversee this initiative. This milestone will not only redefine India’s intellectual property landscape but also strengthen its “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (Development and Heritage) vision.
Understanding Geographical Indications (GI Tags)
What is a GI Tag?
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a certification given to products that have a specific geographical origin and possess unique qualities, reputation, or characteristics due to that origin.
These products are legally protected, preventing unauthorized use and ensuring fair compensation for artisans and producers.
Categories of GI-Tagged Products
India’s GI ecosystem includes a diverse range of products, classified into:
- Agricultural Products – Darjeeling Tea, Nagpur Oranges, Basmati Rice
- Handicrafts – Banarasi Sarees, Kashmiri Pashmina, Channapatna Toys
- Food Products – Ratnagiri Alphonso Mangoes, Bikaneri Bhujia, Dharwad Peda
- Manufactured Goods – Dindigul Locks, Mysore Sandalwood Oil
According to Corp India News, GI tags have not only uplifted these industries but also provided rural artisans and farmers with better financial opportunities.
The Road to 10,000 GI Tags by 2030
Current Landscape of GI Tags in India
At present, India has 605 registered GI products. In comparison, the European Union boasts over 3,000 GI-tagged products, making India’s new goal a significant leap.
To bridge this gap, the Indian government is fast-tracking the GI registration process, aiming to register over 1,000 GI products annually.
List of GI Tags 2024
Note: The list of GI Tags for 2024 will be updated as new products are announced.
Various products from different states have received GI tags, including Jeeraphool from Chhattisgarh, Himachali Kala Zeera, and Kandhamal Haldi from Odisha. The complete list of geographically indicated products is provided below:
Products | Categories | States/UTs |
Kashmir Saffron | Agriculture | Jammu & Kashmir |
Manipuri Black Rice | Food Stuff | Manipur |
Kandhamal Haladi | Agricultural | Odisha |
Rasagola | Food Stuff | Odisha |
Kodaikanal Malai Poondu | Agricultural | Tamil Nadu |
Pawndum | Handicraft | Mizoram |
Ngotekherh | Handicraft | Mizoram |
Hmaram | Handicraft | Mizoram |
Palani Panchamirtham | Food Stuff | Tamil Nadu |
Tawlhlohpuan | Handicraft | Mizoram |
Mizo Puanchei | Handicraft | Mizoram |
Gulbarga Tur Dal | Agricultural | Karnataka |
Tirur Betel Leaf (Tirur Vettila) | Agricultural | Kerala |
Khola Chilli | Agricultural | Goa |
Idu Mishmi Textiles | Handicraft | Arunachal Pradesh |
Dindigul Locks | Manufactured | Tamil Nadu |
Kandangi Saree | Handicraft | Tamil Nadu |
Srivilliputtur Palkova | Food Stuff | Tamil Nadu |
Amroha Dholak | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Mahoba Gaura Patthar Hastashilp | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Mainpuri Tarkashi | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Sambhal Horn Craft | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Baghpat Home Furnishings | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Barabanki Handloom Product | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Kalpi Handmade Paper | Handicraft | Uttar Pradesh |
Key Strategies for Achieving the Target
The government has outlined a multi-pronged strategy to accomplish this ambitious goal:
- Formation of a Dedicated Committee – This committee will streamline the GI registration process and promote awareness among local artisans.
- IPR Strengthening – The Intellectual Property ecosystem is being expanded with 29,000 authorized users, compared to just 365 a decade ago.
- One District, One Product (ODOP) Initiative – Encouraging each district to register its signature product under the GI system.
- E-Commerce Integration – Collaborations with GeM, ONDC, and Amazon to showcase GI products digitally.
- Stronger Quality Standards – Partnering with FSSAI and BIS to ensure authenticity and prevent counterfeit products.
Minister Goyal emphasized that this initiative is not just about branding but about “transforming India’s local into global.”
Economic and Cultural Impact of GI Expansion
Boosting the Indian Economy
By expanding GI registrations, India stands to boost rural income, generate employment, and increase exports. The global handicraft market alone is worth $100 billion, and India contributes only 2%. With more GI-tagged products, this number could increase significantly.
Reviving Indigenous Craftsmanship
Many Indian crafts are on the verge of extinction due to mass production and lack of awareness. The GI initiative provides these artisans with global recognition and financial stability.
For instance, the Madhubani art form, which was once struggling, gained global popularity after its GI registration. Foreign demand surged by 40%, according to industry reports.
Strengthening India’s Soft Power
Incorporating GI products in Indian embassies, trade fairs, and international exhibitions will enhance India’s cultural diplomacy. Just like Champagne is synonymous with France, GI-tagged Darjeeling Tea and Kanjeevaram Silk Sarees could become icons of India’s heritage worldwide.
Role of GI in Rural Development
Empowering Local Communities Through GI Tags
Geographical Indications (GI) play a crucial role in rural economic development by protecting and promoting traditional products crafted by local artisans and farmers. These products, often passed down through generations, gain market prominence due to their unique qualities and cultural significance.
By securing a GI tag, rural producers receive legal protection, ensuring that only authentic producers can market the product under its geographical name. This not only safeguards their craftsmanship but also allows them to maintain quality standards and enhance their economic potential.
How GI Tags Benefit Rural Development
The impact of GI tags on rural communities is multifaceted, influencing economic, cultural, and environmental aspects:
- Structured Supply Chains – GI registration helps organize the supply chain around a shared product reputation, making production more efficient and profitable.
- Higher and Stable Prices – Products with GI tags often command higher market prices and experience less price volatility, providing financial stability to rural producers.
- Value Addition at All Levels – From raw material sourcing to final product sales, every stage of the supply chain benefits, ensuring profit distribution among all stakeholders.
- Conservation of Natural Resources – GI-tagged products are often linked to specific climatic and geographical conditions. Their recognition encourages sustainable resource management to preserve the unique characteristics of the product.
- Preservation of Traditional Knowledge – By protecting age-old craftsmanship and techniques, GI tags support cultural heritage and ensure its transmission to future generations.
- Boost to Rural Tourism – Many GI products become tourist attractions, leading to increased visitor interest in local craftsmanship, boosting hospitality and retail sectors in rural areas.
A Real-World Impact
For example, the Kashmiri Pashmina industry, once threatened by cheap imitations, saw a revival after receiving the GI tag. This recognition led to higher earnings for local weavers, ensuring sustainable employment and preserving an art form that dates back centuries.
Challenges in Achieving 10,000 GI Tags
1. Awareness and Accessibility
- Many local artisans and farmers remain unaware of how to apply for GI registration.
- The application process can be complex and bureaucratic, leading to delays.
2. Maintaining Quality Standards
- Consistency in production and quality is crucial to retaining global consumer trust.
- Lack of regulation enforcement could lead to counterfeit products damaging the credibility of Indian GIs.
3. Global Competition
- Countries like China, France, and Italy already dominate the GI-tagged product space.
- India needs robust marketing strategies to establish itself as a GI leader.
According to Corp India News, stronger policy frameworks and digital integration will be key to overcoming these challenges.
Global Case Studies: Learning from the Best
France: The Champagne Model
Champagne wine is exclusively produced in France’s Champagne region and cannot be replicated elsewhere. India can adopt a similar branding approach for products like Darjeeling Tea and Kolhapuri Chappals.
Italy: Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese
Italy has successfully leveraged Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese’s GI status, making it a luxury product worldwide. India could do the same for Pashmina shawls or Mysore Silk.
The Future: A New Era for Indian GIs
The push for 10,000 GI tags by 2030 is more than just a numbers game. It is a movement to:
- Protect India’s indigenous heritage
- Boost economic growth through exports
- Create a global brand for Indian handicrafts, food, and industrial goods
With strong government backing, policy reforms, and global marketing, this initiative could place India among the top countries for GI-tagged products.
Conclusion
India’s journey towards 10,000 GI tags is a step towards economic growth, cultural preservation, and global recognition. This initiative promises to uplift artisans, farmers, and small businesses, bringing local products to the global stage.
As Minister Piyush Goyal aptly stated, “India’s heritage must not just be preserved—it must thrive.” With the right strategies, India’s local treasures could soon become global icons.
Corp India News believes GI tags are not just about branding; they are a tool for economic empowerment, cultural preservation, and rural sustainability. By supporting GI registration and promotion, India is paving the way for self-reliant rural communities, ensuring that local traditions thrive in a globalized economy.