Protect the reputation rooted in place.
Names like Darjeeling Tea and Kanchipuram Silk carry value inseparable from their origin. GI protection safeguards these regional identities from unauthorised use.
INDICATIONS
REF. IP/09
Origin as a source of value.
A Geographical Indication identifies goods as originating from a specific region, where a quality, reputation or characteristic of the goods is essentially attributable to that place of origin. Unlike trademarks, a GI identifies products whose qualities are linked to a geographical area rather than a single commercial source.
In India, Geographical Indications are governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Where geography shapes character.
01Agricultural Products
Tea, coffee, rice varieties, fruits, spices and produce shaped by regional climate and soil.
02Natural Products
Minerals, natural extracts and region-specific natural resources.
03Handicrafts & Artisan Products
Textiles, handwoven fabrics, embroidery, pottery and traditional artwork.
04Manufactured Goods
Where production techniques or local know-how are closely tied to a region.
Collective rights, not individual ownership.
Unlike trademarks, a GI cannot generally be owned by an individual. Applications are typically filed by producer associations, cooperative societies, industry organisations, statutory or government bodies.
From eligibility to registration.
Eligibility Assessment
Evaluating whether the product's qualities are attributable to a specific geographical region.
Evidence Collection
Documentation compiled to establish the connection between the product and its origin.
Application Filing
Prepared and filed before the Geographical Indications Registry.
Examination & Publication
The Registry examines the application before it is published for opposition, if any.
Registration
The Geographical Indication is recorded and protected under applicable law.
For many traditional industries, a Geographical Indication represents one of their most valuable collective assets.