It’s a common misconception that Geographical Indication (GI) products are often exclusively related only to agricultural products. On the contrary, GIs cover a variety of products and are not limited to agricultural products. GIs also cover non-agricultural products such as handicrafts, ceramics, glassware, metalwork, jewellery, etc., that have a specific link to a geographical area.
While agricultural products like Darjeeling tea and Basmati rice are well-known examples of GIs that have solidified the connection between GIs and farming in the minds of many, it’s essential to clarify that GIs are not confined to the agricultural domain only and encompass a much broader range of goods.
There could be several reasons for this misconception, such as:
- Prominence of Agricultural GIs: Throughout history, we’ve primarily heard about Geographical Indications (GIs) in connection with special food or crops from specific areas, resulting in the perception that GIs are primarily confined to agriculture.
- Limited Awareness: Many consumers and even some producers might not be fully aware of the diverse scope of GIs. This lack of awareness contributes to the misconception that GIs are only for agricultural products.
- Tradition and Culture: Agriculture has a deep-rooted connection to tradition and culture in many regions. This cultural significance can overshadow the fact that non-agricultural products also bear GIs. For instance, some agricultural GIs are based on traditional knowledge or traditional cultural expressions that have been passed down from generation to generation. These GIs can reflect a community's identity, values, and heritage. Non-agricultural GIs may not have the same level of recognition or appreciation as agricultural ones.
- GI Terminology: The usual terminology used in GI production, such as “appellation of origin” and “traditional knowledge”, may lead people to associate GIs more with agricultural products due to their close ties with specific regions. Appellation of origin is a special kind of GI that requires a stronger link between the product and its geographical origin. Traditional knowledge is a term that refers to the knowledge, skills and practices of indigenous and local communities that are often related to biodiversity and natural resources. These terms may not be as applicable or relevant to non-agricultural products that have different production methods or characteristics.
To dispel this confusion or misconception, it is crucial to emphasise that GIs extend to a wide range of products way beyond agriculture. Highlighting some of these non-agricultural GIs, such as handicrafts (Pashmina shawls, kantha, phulkari etc.), textiles (Mysore silk, muga silk), Manufactured (Mysore Sandalwood Oil, kannuaj perfume, Mysore aggarbatti) and Foodstuff (Bikaneri Bhujia, bandar laddoo, Goan Khaje etc.) can help broaden the understanding and scope of GIs and clear the misconception of GIs being related to agricultural products only. These are just some of the numerous non-agricultural GIs in India, which show that GI is not limited to agricultural products but also covers a wide range of products that reflect the diversity and creativity of India’s culture and geography.
Moreover, awareness campaigns and educational initiatives should emphasise the inclusive and expansive nature of GI protection. By showcasing the cultural, economic, and quality-related aspects of non-agricultural GIs, we can better understand the concept and its significance in preserving and promoting regional uniqueness across various industries.
In conclusion, the misconception that GIs are solely associated with agricultural produce arises from historical prominence and limited awareness amongst the people at large. Educating everyone about the diverse scope of GIs, encompassing both agricultural and non-agricultural products, is essential to foster a more accurate understanding of this valuable form of intellectual property protection.
