Page 111 - Shawl Weaving Artisan - TT

Textile & Handloom Related Theory for Exercise 1.9.72&73
Shawl Weaving Artisan - GI Tagging

Introduction to Geographical Indications (GI)

Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
• explain geographical indication. (definition and significance)
• brief historical background, economic and cultural impact
• explain economic benefits of GI tagged textiles
• brief preservation of cultural heritage
• list the criteria for obtaining GI status
• explain process of registration and application procedures.

Introduction to geographical indications • Promoting regional identity: GIs highlight and
celebrate the unique regional identities, traditional
Geographical Indications (GIs) are a unique form of knowledge, and craftsmanship associated with
intellectual property right (IPR) that links the quality, particular products.
reputation, or other characteristics of a product directly
to its geographical origin. They are signs used on • Enhancing market value: GI-tagged products often
products that identify them as originating from a specific command premium prices in both domestic and
geographical location, be it a town, region, or country. international markets due to their assured quality and
This connection often implies that the product’s unique reputation.
attributes are due to specific natural factors (like climate, • Rural development and livelihoods: GIs contribute
soil) or human factors (like traditional production methods, to the economic prosperity of producers, often located
craftsmanship) prevalent in that area. in rural or marginalized areas, by providing them with
Definition of geographical indication exclusive rights and increased market access. This
According to Article 22(1) of the Agreement on Trade- supports sustainable livelihoods for artisans, farmers,
and small producers.
Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS
Agreement) of the World Trade Organization (WTO), a Historical background of geographical indications
Geographical Indication is defined as:
1 Early origins: The protection of region-specific
“Indications which identify a good as originating in the products dates back to ancient times. In medieval
territory of a Member [of the World Trade Organization], Europe, guilds and trade organizations played a
or a region or locality in that territory, where a given pivotal role in safeguarding the uniqueness of local
quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is products. For instance, in 15th-century France,
essentially attributable to its geographical origin.” Roquefort cheese was recognized for its distinctive
qualities and protected against imitations. Similarly,
In simpler terms, a GI is a name or sign used on products
that: Champagne, a sparkling wine from the Champagne
region of France, became synonymous with its place
• Have a specific geographical origin. of origin, leading to efforts to protect its name and
• Possess qualities, a reputation, or characteristics that reputation.
are essentially due to that origin. 2 Development of legal frameworks: The formalization

Significance of geographical indications of GI protection began in the late 19th and early 20th
centuries:
GI tags hold immense significance for various • Paris convention (1883): Introduced the concepts
stakeholders: of “indications of source” and “appellations of

• Protecting authenticity and quality: GIs serve as origin,” laying the groundwork for international
a guarantee to consumers about the authenticity, recognition of GIs.
quality, and unique characteristics of a product, which • Madrid agreement (1891): Prohibited false or
are directly linked to its geographical origin. This misleading indications of source on goods.
helps consumers differentiate genuine products from
imitations. • Lisbon agreement (1958): Established an
international system for the protection of
• Preventing misappropriation: They provide legal appellations of origin, administered by the World
protection against unauthorized use of the GI name Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
by producers whose products do not conform to the
established standards or do not originate from the • TRIPS agreement (1995): Under the World Trade
designated geographical area. This prevents unfair Organization (WTO), Articles 22 to 24 specifically
competition and consumer deception. address the protection of GIs, requiring member
countries to implement legal means to prevent
misuse and ensure protection.
101