Geographical indication Tag
■ G.I.Tag:--- -----) G.I . tag recognises the place of origin of a product and the specific qualities or means of production associated with it. Acting as a certification, it is a way of ensuring that similar products from elsewhere cannot be sold under this name. Approved by the Geneva-headquartered World Trade Organization GIs have been defined under Article 22(1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights(TRIPS) Agreement . • Parmesan Reggiano cheese (Italy) , • Scotch whisky (Scotland), • Champagne (France). ● In India, the GI tag is governed by the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. ● GI came into force with effect from 15 September 2003. • The tag is valid for a decade, after which it can be renewed for another 10 years. 363 GI tags as of March 2020. ■ Why is GI tag important and coveted? • Towns and cities are vying for the coveted Geographical Indicat