The Impact of Geographical Indication on the Handloom Industry in Kerala

Abstract

Geographical Indication originated and significantly developed in Europe in the 19th century. A Geographic Indication designates a good as coming from a defined territory or area where a noteworthy quality, reputation, or other attributes of the good is mostly due to that location and the local environmental and human variables. Geographical Indications (GIs) express local agroecological and cultural characteristics now valued and protected in many countries worldwide. The Geographical Indication registered office is situated in Chennai. There are ten steps for its registration. GI is a key asset for farmers in specific geographical areas. GIs must be legally protected for both cultural and commercial reasons. Traditional knowledge is preserved by GI protection. The cultural legacy strengthens the regional identity. GIs can add value for local communities because their goods are frequently entrenched in geography, culture, and custom. GIs are practical marketing tools that boost the economic value of agricultural products by communicating cultural identity through the use of the region of origin, giving the products a distinctive identity, recognizing the importance of natural resources and particular human skills in the production process, and more. 475 Geographical Indications have been registered since September 15, 2003. The highest GI registration year is 2022 - 23, i.e., 55. The second highest is 2021 - 2022. i.e., 50. Forty-five products were registered in the year 2008 - 09. And the lowest product registration was in 2004 - 05 and 2006 - 07. More than 50% of the GI products are in the handicraft category 31% of the GI products are included in the agricultural. Only three products are included in the category of Natural. Tamil Nadu has the highest number of GIs registered. The second place is Uttar Pradesh has registered 45 GIs, and the third place is Karnataka has 44. Kerala has got 35 product registrations.The handloom products produced in each region of India are distinctive in their design and style..