The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has launched a social media campaign (#LetsTalkIP) to promote Indian Geographical Indications (GIs). It is an ongoing movement initiated by Cell for IPR Promotions & Management (CIPAM) under the aegis of DIPP to make more people aware about the importance of Intellectual Property Rights. Geographical Indications (GIs)
A Geographical Indication or a GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
GI is an assurance of quality and distinctiveness which is essentially attributable to its origin in that defined geographical locality. It’s an area of strength and optimism for India, whereby the GI tag has accorded protection to a number of hand-made and manufactured products, especially in the informal sector.
Darjeeling Tea, Mahabaleshwar Strawberry, Blue Pottery of Jaipur, Banarasi Sarees and Tirupati Laddus are some of the GIs.
GIs are of utmost importance to the country as they are an integral part of India’s rich culture and collective intellectual heritage. The promotion of GIs will augment the Government’s ‘Make in India’ campaign.
Certain GI products can benefit the rural economy in remote areas, by supplementing the incomes of artisans, farmers, weavers and craftsmen. Our rural artisans possess unique skills and knowledge of traditional practices and methods, passed down from generation to generation, which need to be protected and promoted.
