Geographical Indication Protects Indian Traditional Knowledge

Geographical Indication (GI) is an indication which identifies products as agricultural, natural or manufactured goods (including handicrafts, textiles and processed food items) with specific geographical origin, and process qualities and reputation attributable to its geographical origin. The GI registration of a product indicates the quality and distinctiveness of that product associated with the defined geographical territory. The registration and protection of Geographical Indications in India is executed under "Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999" effective from September 15, 2003.

The Geographical Indication (GI) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has recently registered four new GIs - Palani Panchamirtham from Palani, Tamil Nadu, Tawlhlohpuan and Mizo Puanchei from Mizoram, and Tirur betel vine from Kerala.