Banglar Rasogolla, Mamallapuram stone sculptures get GI tag

The Geographical Indication (GI) Registry and Intellectual Property India has presented Geographical Indication (GI) Tag status to Banglar Rasogolla of West Bengal and Mamallapuram stone sculptures of Tamil Nadu.
Banglar Rasgolla: The Directorate of Food Processing Industry of West Bengal had made an application on September 8, 2015, seeking the GI status for Banglar Rasogolla. According to application, Rasogollas were invented in Nadia district of West Bengal are 60 years old (lower end time frame). Haradhan, a confectioner of village Phulia is named as the inventor. West Bengal has given half-a-dozen historical evidences to back its claim.
Sculptures from Mamallapuram: They are carved in stone with characteristics of intricate designing chiselled finely. They are carved inspirit of surrounding Pallava art and architecture. The description includes cave architecture, rock architecture, open sculptures, structural temples, relief sculptures and painting or portrait sculptures.

Geographical Indication (GI) Tag

The Geographical Indication (GI) is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special quality and established reputation.
These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity. The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
In India, GI tag is governed by Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999. This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2017