What is a GI Tag?
A geographical indication (GI) is a unique identifier used on products originating from a particular geographical area, distinguished by characteristics or reputation inherently linked to that origin.
GI Tags Of Assam: GIs function as a type of intellectual property right, signaling a product’s origin from a specific place where it acquires distinct qualities or reputation. They apply to diverse goods, ranging from agricultural products and food items to wines, spirits, handicrafts, and industrial products. The adoption of GIs protects the integrity and quality of products associated with specific geographic regions. It prevents unauthorized parties from exploiting the geographical indication to promote inferior or unrelated products, thereby preserving the authenticity and value of goods tied to that locale. Furthermore, GIs provide consumers with confidence in the authenticity and quality of their purchases.
Illustrative examples of products benefiting from geographical indications encompass Champagne from the Champagne region of France, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese from Italy, Darjeeling tea from India, and Scotch whisky from Scotland.
LAW
Geographical indications of goods( Registration and Protection Act ,1999)
MINISTRY
DPIIT, Ministry Of Commerce and Industry
LIST OF GI TAGS OF ASSAM , 2024
| Geographical Indication | Type | |
| 1 | Assam (Orthodox) Logo | Agricultural |
| 2 | Muga Silk of Assam (Logo) | Handicraft |
| 3 | Muga Silk | Handicraft |
| 4 | Assam Karbi Anglong Ginger | Agricultural |
| 5 | Tezpur Litchi | Agricultural |
| 6 | Joha Rice | Agricultural |
| 7 | Boka Chaul | Agricultural |
| 8 | Kaji Nemu | Agricultural |
| 9 | Chokuwa Rice | Agricultural |
| 10 | Gamosa | Handloom |
1.Assam (Orthodox) Logo
Since 2008, the highly esteemed Assam Orthodox Tea has been officially branded. Only teas cultivated and processed from the primary Camellia Sinensis var. Assamica and alternative variants within tea plantations situated in the Brahmaputra or Assam Valley in northeastern India are eligible for the Assam Orthodox designation.
2.Muga Silk of Assam (Logo)
Muga silk obtained its designation as a protected geographical indication (GI) in 2007, and in 2014, it received official approval for a GI logo, primarily for trademark purposes. The logo has been officially registered with the Assam Science Technology and Environment Council.
3.Muga Silk
Muga silk was Recognized as a protected geographical indication (GI) in logo for a trademark purpose in 2014. Muga silk ,Due to its low porosity is difficult to bleached or dyed and hence ewtains its natural golden tint. The durability of Muga silk saree is beyond lifetime. As the Fabric ages its golden luster increases & absorbs harmful ultraviolet Rays in Sunlight. And most importantly It is only found in Assam
4.Assam Karbi Anglong Ginger
Ginger is grown as an important cash crop in Singhasan Hills of Karbi Anglong district using the age-old system of Jhum and Tila cultivation..Assam Karbi Anglong Ginger was bestowed with the Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Government of India in 2015, with the designated GI number 226.
5.Tezpur Litchi
Tezpur Lichi of Assam got the Geographical Indication (GI) Tags ,making this item an incontrovertible proof of their origins in the state, and protecting them from production elsewhere. Tezpur lichi obtained its designation as a protected geographical indication (GI) in November 2020
6.Joha Rice
The rice variety(JOHA RICE) has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Government of India in 2016, with the assigned GI Number 287.Joha rice is a distinguished variety grown in India, renowned for its captivating aroma and delicate, exquisite taste. Assam stands as the foremost cultivator of this rice, primarily employing paddy field farming methods for its cultivation.
7.Boka Chaul
Boka saul or chaul, commonly referred to as ‘mud rice,’ carries a special meaning for the diligent farmers of Assam. It has become a fundamental part of their daily routines, symbolizing their perseverance and commitment to the land. The recognition of Boka Chawal, also known as “mud rice,” with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019 underscores its significance and distinctiveness, acknowledging its importance in the region.
8.Kaji Nemu
‘Kaji Nemu’ (Citrus limon) is a zesty fruit indigenous to the state of Assam in India. This lemon variety typically boasts an oval shape and features thin, sleek skin that tends to be light green in color .On January 5, 2019, Kaji Nemu was awarded the certified GI Tag. Excitingly, Assam’s Kaji Nemu (Citrus Limon), renowned for its distinct aroma and flavor, has been officially designated as the “State Fruit” by the Cabinet.
9.Chokuwa Rice
Chokuwa Rice, famously known as Assam’s “Magic Rice,” has recently been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. With its origins deeply embedded in the history of the Ahom dynasty, this semi-glutinous Sali rice variety is cultivated around the Brahmaputra River .On October 24, 2019, the 124th edition of the journal issued by the Geographical Identification Registration Department of the Government of India officially granted geographical indication (GI) status to Chokuwa Rice.
10.Gamosa
Gamocha,’ symbolizing Assam’s cultural richness and identity, was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the central government, confirming its exceptional significance and heritage. The GI tag for Assam Gamosa was officially conferred in 2022
