Under PM Modi’s leadership, the number of authorized users of GI tags surged from 365 to an impressive 29,000. Moreover, the number of patents granted in India has increased from a modest 6,000 to 100,000, reflecting the government’s focus on innovation, protection of intellectual property, and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
In a significant move to promote India’s rich cultural heritage and traditional products, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, set an ambitious target of achieving 10,000 Geographical Indication (GI) tags by the year 2030. This announcement was made during the GI Samagam, held in New Delhi and organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the India Today Group. Currently, India has issued 605 GI tags, a number expected to increase substantially with this new target.
Strengthening India’s Intellectual Property Ecosystem
Shri Goyal emphasized that this ambitious target would be achieved through a “whole of government” approach, underscoring the collaborative efforts across various sectors of the government. To oversee the process, a dedicated committee will be formed, ensuring a streamlined and coordinated effort towards reaching the 10,000 GI mark by 2030.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ecosystem, the Minister pointed out the significant strides made over the last decade. Under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, the number of authorized users of GI tags surged from 365 to an impressive 29,000. Moreover, the number of patents granted in India has increased from a modest 6,000 to 100,000, reflecting the government’s focus on innovation, protection of intellectual property, and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
The Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vikas bhi aur Virasat bhi’ (Development and Heritage Together) was also cited by Shri Goyal. This vision seeks to balance the growth of India’s economy with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage, which is being championed through initiatives like the GI tag. The Prime Minister’s personal efforts, such as the mention of various GI products in his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ have also played a crucial role in raising awareness about India’s traditional products.
GI Tags and Their Global Impact
Geographical Indication (GI) tags are a powerful tool for protecting the uniqueness of products linked to specific regions, preserving traditional knowledge, and empowering local communities. By granting exclusive rights to producers, GI tags enhance the economic value of these products, allowing them to command premium prices and improve market access, both domestically and internationally. The protection offered by GI tags also combats counterfeit products, ensures quality, and encourages sustainable production practices, contributing to both economic and environmental well-being. Additionally, GI tags help build a strong brand identity and foster global recognition, making products more attractive in international markets.
On a broader scale, GI tags serve as instruments of cultural diplomacy and soft power, showcasing a nation’s heritage and craftsmanship on the world stage. As countries like India set ambitious targets for increasing the number of GI-tagged products, the global importance of these tags continues to rise. By promoting unique, authentic products, GI tags drive export potential, support sustainable development, and encourage innovation while safeguarding cultural heritage. In this way, they not only protect local identities but also contribute to a country’s economic growth and global presence.
Enhancing the Visibility and Quality of GI Products
The government’s efforts are not just limited to issuing GI tags but extend to improving the branding, marketing, and quality standards of these products. Shri Goyal stressed the importance of better branding for GI-tagged products and pointed out the need for collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to ensure better quality control. This move is aimed at curbing the spread of counterfeit products and enhancing consumer confidence in authentic Indian traditional goods.
The Minister also highlighted the potential for promoting GI products through collaborations with the private sector and government organizations such as Indian Railways and airports. These platforms offer an excellent opportunity to showcase these unique products to a broader audience, both domestically and internationally.
Unlocking Export Potential for GI Products
Shri Goyal suggested innovative ways to promote GI-tagged products, including listing them on government e-commerce platforms such as GeM and ONDC. E-commerce platforms are increasingly seeking to feature Indian handlooms, handicrafts, and specialty food items, which are prime candidates for GI tagging. The promotion of these products online would not only increase domestic visibility but also open doors to global markets, contributing to India’s export potential.
Further promoting GI products abroad, Shri Goyal proposed that Indian embassies could showcase GI-tagged items in their diplomatic missions, similar to the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme. This initiative could be a game-changer for Indian artisans and producers, helping them reach international buyers and unlock new export avenues.
State Governments’ Role in Promoting GI Products
Both Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra were specifically commended for their efforts in promoting GI products within their states. These states have been instrumental in recognizing and promoting the importance of GI tags for products that carry unique geographical significance, such as the famous Banarasi sarees from Uttar Pradesh and Warli paintings from Maharashtra.
The Road Ahead: A Strategic Push for GI Products
The government’s vision for the next decade is clear – to protect and promote India’s diverse heritage through the GI tag while simultaneously boosting the economy. By targeting 10,000 GI tags by 2030, India aims to create global recognition for its traditional products and craft, generating new economic opportunities, protecting intellectual property, and fostering pride in India’s rich cultural legacy.
The strategic combination of government support, improved quality standards, enhanced marketing, and international exposure is poised to significantly boost the recognition and sales of GI products, benefiting local artisans, farmers, and industries across India. As India continues to preserve its cultural legacy, the promotion of GI tags will play a central role in ensuring that traditional products receive the recognition and respect they deserve on the global stage.
