Geographical Indication (GI) Registration in India
Protect your regional products with a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. At Tax Pal Solutions, we provide end-to-end support—from drafting to filing, ensuring full compliance under the GI of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999.
What is a GI Tag?
- Certifies products with a specific geographical origin.
- Ensures the product’s quality, reputation, or unique characteristics are linked to its origin.
- Protects producers against misuse of regional product names.
- Enhances consumer confidence and product authenticity.
GI Tag vs Trademark
| Aspect |
Geographical Indication (GI) |
Trademark |
| Definition |
Identifies products from a specific place with linked qualities |
Distinguishes goods/services of one business from another |
| Ownership |
Collective group, association, or community of producers |
Individual or business entity |
| Purpose |
Protects regional products & prevents misuse |
Preserves brand identity |
| Scope |
Applies only to products linked to a region |
Can apply to any product/service |
| Duration |
10 years, renewable indefinitely |
10 years, renewable indefinitely |
| Transferability |
Cannot be sold or licensed outside region |
Can be transferred/licensed freely |
Benefits of GI Registration
- Legal Protection – Stop unauthorized use of your GI name.
- Enhanced Reputation – Adds value and authenticity to your product.
- Consumer Confidence – Assures buyers of true origin and quality.
- Boost Local Economy – Creates employment & promotes tourism.
- Preserves Traditional Knowledge – Protects unique skills & heritage.
- Collective Marketing – Strengthens brand image and market presence.
Who Can Apply for GI Registration?
- Any association of persons
- Producers or organizations representing producer interests
- Authorities established by law
- Must represent interests of producers of the product
Products Eligible for GI Registration
| Category |
Examples |
| Agricultural |
Darjeeling Tea, Basmati Rice, Alphonso Mangoes |
| Foodstuffs |
Tirupati Laddu, Feni |
| Wines & Spirits |
Nashik Grapes, Goa Feni, Mahua |
| Handicrafts |
Kanjeevaram Silk, Banarasi Sarees, Pashmina |
| Manufactured |
Mysore Sandal Soap |
| Industrial |
Salem Stainless Steel |
Documents Required
- Name & address of the association/organization
- Detailed description of goods & unique features
- Proof of product reputation/distinctiveness
- Affidavit of representation of producers
- Certified map of geographical territory
- Inspection structure details for quality verification
- Statement of Case (Rule 32(1))
- Proposed GI logo
Step-by-Step GI Registration Process
- 📝 Filing Application – Submit GI-1A to GI-1D forms with supporting documents and fees.
- 🔍 Preliminary Scrutiny – Registry examines for compliance; objections may be raised.
- 📣 Publication & Opposition – Published in GI Journal; public can file opposition.
- 🏆 GI Registration Certificate – Issued if no opposition or opposition dismissed.
Timeline
| Stage |
Duration |
| Filing & Examination |
Few weeks to months |
| Publication in Journal |
~3 months |
| Opposition Period |
3–4 months |
| Opposition Proceedings |
Varies (if any) |
| Certificate Issuance |
After clearance |
Government Fees
| Fee Type |
Amount (₹) |
Notes |
| Application Filing |
5,000 |
New GI registration |
| Renewal |
5,000 |
Every 10 years |
| Additional User |
1,000 |
Per extra authorized user |
| Certified Copy |
200 |
Request official copy |
| Opposition Filing |
1,000 per class |
File opposition to GI |
Rights After GI Registration
- Exclusive Use – Only authorized users can use GI tag.
- Protection Against Infringement – Legal recourse for misuse.
- Collective Marketing – Strengthens brand identity for producers.
Renewal & Infringement
- Renew every 10 years to maintain protection.
- GI Infringement occurs when unauthorized use misleads consumers.
- Legal remedies: Injunctions, damages, or court proceedings under Section 22 & Section 39.
GI Registration Certificate
- Official proof of product origin & authenticity
- Builds market trust & enables legal protection
- Can be downloaded online from IP India portal after registration
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