Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
India's legal protection for unique regional products — like France's champagne law but for Indian agricultural heritage.
— Definition
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a sign used on products with a specific geographical origin that possesses qualities, reputation, or characteristics attributable to that origin. In India, GI tags are registered under the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999.
— In Detail
India's first GI tag was awarded to Darjeeling tea in 2004. As of 2024, India has 600+ GI-tagged products — more than any other country. The process requires demonstrating: (1) The product's unique qualities are tied to the geography; (2) Historical use in the region; (3) An organised producer community. GI tags prevent geographical mislabelling — Basmati rice from other regions cannot be sold as 'Basmati' in GI-protected markets. Key agricultural GI tags relevant to Indian food: Darjeeling tea (2004), Navara rice (2007), Chak-Hao (Manipur black rice, 2020), Wayanad Jeerakasala rice (2010), Lakadong turmeric (2015). WTO's TRIPS Agreement (Article 22–24) provides international legal framework for GI protection.
— Why It Matters
GI tags protect small farmers from counterfeit products — a turmeric farmer in Lakadong gets a premium only if buyers can verify authenticity. Without GI protection, cheaper products from other regions are sold under the same name, eroding the price premium that sustains traditional farming communities. When you buy GI-tagged produce, you are participating in an international legal system designed to protect agricultural heritage.
— Related Terms
— See in Field Guide
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