What is G.I. Tag?
A Geographical Indication (G.I.) tag is a special label or sign used on products that originate from a specific geographical location and possess qualities, a reputation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that origin. It is a form of intellectual property protection provided under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in India. The tag is granted by the Geographical Indications Registry, which functions under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. G.I. Tag for Taj Mahal Marble Inlay work is a new development.
The main purpose of a G.I. tag is to ensure that only those registered as authorized users (typically local producers or cooperatives) are allowed to use the name of the product. This protects traditional knowledge and craftsmanship, while also preventing unauthorized or counterfeit products from using the same name. A product that receives a G.I. tag gains national and international recognition, and this often leads to economic benefits for the local community, including increased demand, better prices, and export opportunities.
G.I. tags also help in preserving cultural heritage and traditional techniques associated with specific regions. For instance, Darjeeling Tea from West Bengal is globally known for its aroma and quality, and Banarasi Sarees are admired for their rich weave and cultural importance. Other famous examples include Mysore Silk from Karnataka, Kanjeevaram Sarees from Tamil Nadu, and Nagpur Oranges from Maharashtra. In Madhya Pradesh, products like the Chanderi Fabric and Maheshwari Sarees are G.I.-tagged, showcasing the state’s rich textile tradition.
In short, a G.I. tag not only acts as a certification of authenticity and origin but also supports the livelihoods of artisans, farmers, and traditional communities by safeguarding the identity and exclusivity of their products.
History of G.I. Tags
The concept of Geographical Indications (G.I.) dates back centuries, though it was formally recognized and codified much later. Historically, communities across the world have associated certain products with specific regions due to unique characteristics influenced by geography, climate, traditional knowledge, or craftsmanship. For example, wine from Champagne (France) or cheese from Roquefort became known by their place of origin, long before the idea of legal protection existed.
The modern legal framework for G.I. protection began to take shape in Europe. Countries like France and Italy developed systems to protect the integrity of their regional products. The most influential global step came with the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) TRIPS Agreement in 1995.
- TRIPS stands for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights.
- Under TRIPS, Geographical Indications were recognized as a category of intellectual property.
- This agreement obligated all WTO members to implement legal protection for G.I.-tagged goods.
In essence, the history of G.I. tags is rooted in the global recognition of the intrinsic link between product and place—a relationship that celebrates identity, tradition, and authenticity. India’s active participation in this system reflects its rich cultural and geographic diversity, giving local products a chance to shine on the world stage.
Which products in India have G.I. Tags?
India is home to a rich and diverse array of products that have received Geographical Indication (G.I.) tags — spanning agriculture, handicrafts, textiles, food items, and more. These tags celebrate the unique heritage, craftsmanship, and traditional knowledge associated with specific regions.
Here’s an overview of some well-known G.I.-tagged products in India, categorized by type:
Handicrafts & Textiles
| Product | State |
| Banarasi Saree | Uttar Pradesh |
| Chanderi Fabric | Madhya Pradesh |
| Maheshwar Saree | Madhya Pradesh |
| Kanjeevaram Silk Saree | Tamil Nadu |
| Pochampally Ikat | Telangana |
| Kasuti Embroidery | Karnataka |
| Kashmiri Pashmina | Jammu & Kashmir |
| Mysore Silk | Karnataka |
| Bhagalpuri Silk | Bihar |
| Aranmula Kannadi (Metal Mirror) | Kerala |
Art & Craft
| Product | State |
| Madhubani Paintings | Bihar |
| Mysore Rosewood Inlay | Karnataka |
| Blue Pottery of Jaipur | Rajasthan |
| Bidriware | Karnataka |
| Thanjavur Paintings | Tamil Nadu |
| Pattachitra Paintings | Odisha & West Bengal |
| Nirmal Toys | Telangana |
| Bastar Dhokra | Chhattisgarh |
G.I. Tag for Taj Mahal Marble Inlay
Agra is famous all over the world for the iconic Taj Mahal and its beauty of inlay work. Millions of semi-precious and precious stones are studded in the cavities of the surface of the white marble. Art lovers appreciate this form of painstaking art work from the core of their hearts and purchase the souvenirs to decorate their homes such as coffee table, dining table, coaster sets, elephants, etc. Since couple of years there was a demand from the side of handicraft exporters for the Geographical Indication Tag for the stone inlay work.
So long cherished desire of the marble inlay workers is going to be fulfilled as on Friday inlay work of Agra is going to get the Geographical Indication Tag certificate. The Handicraft Association Office bearers are going to receive this from the honourable Chief minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath in a function in Lucknow on Friday.
So this is the second G.I. Tag for Agra After the leather shoes.
