Geographical Indication (GI) Tag is actually the mark of authenticity and origin which can be associated with the heritage, tradition, and quality of a product linked to some specific region. It thus plays a very important role in saving the cultural and economic values of local goods. Within recent years, India has actively been granting GI tags for various products, which are indicative of the nation's diverse and rich cultural heritage.
What is a GI Tag?
A Geographical Indication tag is a label that certifies the product as originating from a specific location, where the quality, reputation, or other characteristic of such a product is essentially attributable to its geographical origin. GI tags are issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
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GI Tags of 2025
India recognized a number of unique products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags in 2025. These tags showed off the country's rich cultural and artisanal heritage. In addition to keeping these products' unique identities safe these tags also help the economies of the places where they are made. Here are some important additions:
Handicrafts and Textiles
Ryndia (Meghalaya): An eco-friendly fabric crafted from Ahimsa silk by Khasi, Bhoi, and Jaintia artisans, known for its durability and luxurious texture.
Banglar Muslin (West Bengal): A revival of the historic fine cotton muslin, renowned for its delicate weave and cultural significance.
Gujarat Handicrafts: Several crafts from Gujarat received GI tags, including Kutch Rogan Craft, Kutch Bandhani, Gharchola Craft, Suf Embroidery, Ahmedabad Sodagari Block Print, Surat Sadeli Craft, Bharuch Sujani Weaving, and Kutch Ajrakh.
Agricultural and Food Products
Nolen Gurer Sandesh (West Bengal): A traditional Bengali sweet made from date palm jaggery, celebrated for its unique flavor.
Panruti Palappazham & Cashew (Tamil Nadu): Panruti's jackfruit and cashew are renowned for their distinctive taste and quality.
Puliyankudi Acid Lime & Virudhunagar Samba Vathal (Tamil Nadu): These regional specialties are valued for their unique flavors and culinary uses.
Chettikulam Small Onion & Ramanadu Chithiraikar Rice (Tamil Nadu): Known for their distinctive qualities and importance in local cuisine.
Arts and Musical Instruments
Banarasi Tabla (Uttar Pradesh): A traditional percussion instrument integral to Indian classical music, recognized for its craftsmanship.
Pilibhit’s Bamboo Flute (Uttar Pradesh): A handcrafted musical instrument known for its melodious sound and cultural significance.
Regional Specialties
Borsuri Tur Dal (Maharashtra): A variety of pigeon pea cultivated in Latur, appreciated for its taste and nutritional value.
Andaman Karen Musley Rice (Andaman & Nicobar Islands): An aromatic rice variety cultivated by the Karen community, known for its unique flavor and cultural importance.
Legal Framework of GI Tag
The legal framework for GI tags in India is the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into effect in 2003. This Act provides legal protection to products with unique geographical origins from unauthorized use of the GI label and encourages economic benefits for local producers. Registration is carried out by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.
Also, read about the Trademark Act 1999 and the Patent Act 1970.
How GI Tags Help India
Geographical Indication (GI) tags safeguard the heritage of India, strengthen the local producers, boost the exports, enhance tourism, prevent forgery, and ensure the sustainable practices that safeguard the traditional crafts and agriculture products.
Preserves Heritage: They do not allow any loss of traditional knowledge, crafts, and cultural practices.
Economic Empowerment: Adds value to the local artisans' product, increasing their incomes in addition to the farmer and the producers.
Boosts Exports: GI-tagged products gain international recognition opening new markets and increasing export potential.
Tourism Growth: Promotes regional tourism by highlighting unique cultural and agricultural products.
Prevents Counterfeiting: Ensures authenticity and protects against imitation, maintaining product integrity.
Promotes Sustainability: Encourages eco-friendly and organic production methods linked to traditional practices.
Also, read about copyright law in India. Understand the difference between copyright and patent.
GI Tags and India
As of early 2025, India has registered 658 Geographical Indication (GI) tags under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
Breakdown of GI Tags by Category
Handicrafts: 214
Handloom Products: 104
Others (Agricultural, Foodstuffs, Manufactured Goods, Natural Products): 340
Upcoming Challenges and Opportunities
The Indian government wants to improve rural economies, protect traditional knowledge, and make more indigenous products known around the world by registering 10,000 GI products by 2030. The new GI tags show how diverse India's culture is, but there are still problems with protecting against fakes, marketing them, and making producers aware of the problems. It is still very important to make sure that products with GI tags meet quality standards and are priced fairly. But these tags also bring about big chances, like increasing exports, making it easier for people to make a living, and boosting tourism. GI-tagged products can become more competitive on a global scale with the right government support, branding, and technology adoption. This can help local economies grow in a way that lasts.
In a nutshell
The GI tags across different states are recently added and reflect the rich cultural and artisanal diversity of India. From the terracotta crafts of Assam to the weaving traditions of Meghalaya, each product narrates a story of its origin, tradition, and craftsmanship. Recognition and support for these products not only add to the richness of our cultural fabric but also empower the communities behind them.
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FAQs on Recent GI Tags in India
Q1. What is a GI Tag?
A GI Tag certifies a product as originating from a specific location, attributing its unique quality or reputation to that geographical area.
Q2. Who grants GI Tags in India?
The Geographical Indications Registry under the DPIIT grants GI tags in India.
Q3. How long is a GI tag valid?
A GI tag is valid for 10 years and can be renewed.
Q4. What are the benefits of GI Tags?
They protect product originality, boost local economies, and prevent unauthorized use.
Q5. Can individuals apply for GI Tags?
No, only groups like associations or organizations representing producers can apply.
