Geographical Indications of Punjab

By Ch.Hamid MalhiPresident, The Heritage Association

• What are Geographical Indications?

“…….Indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a Member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin.” (Article 22 of TRIPS Agreement)

A GI has….

• Reputation

• Origin

• Quality or

• Any other characteristic linked to origin

GI …..• Is not created but it exists• Has a history of link to origin• Economic importance for its stakeholders• Is a collective protection available to all who

perform according to the regulations• Reinforces confidence of the consumer

• Unique protection of a local development tool• Value addition to local economy • Prevents relocation of production area • Different from Trade Marks • Ensures collective pride to the producers• Prevents the transfer of traditional methods to

areas outside their origin.

Regulations

• All phases of production must be completed within the area of origin (map)

• The producer (stakeholder) should at least have 5-10 years of experience recognised by the committee.

• The quality of the end product to be certified by the committee

Some GIs of Punjab….•Basmati Rice•Phulkari•Neeli Buffalo•Sahiwal Cattle•Multan Mango•Sargodha Kinnow….

Other GIs of Punjab… Chiniot Wood Work Blue Pottery of Multan Camel Skin Work Multan Camel Bone Work Multan Sillanwali Lac Work Truck Decoration of Qamar

Machanni……..

Regional Status- IndiaJournals 49Applications filed 387Registered 178Handicrafts 120Food & Agri 55

Country (Punjab) StatusJournals NoneApplications with TMR 12Registered 1 - Basmati 2008 (Pending SHC appeal since 2008)Much behind the pace

A Stakeholder chain committed to…• Its Protection• Quality production• Origin certification• Quality assurance to the consumer

Who…. •Defines?•Maintains quality production?•Assures quality & origin?• Takes the responsibility?

The Stakeholders

The producers:-•Growers (agricultural products)• Farmers ( livestock)•Artisans (handicrafts)•Craftsmen (handicrafts)

S• Traders • Businesses

• Factory owners

• Processors

• Exporters

• The chain will vary from product to product.• The stakeholder share in the end

product will also differ.

I,C&I provides guidance in• Awareness• Development• Promotion

• Process of production

• Enlisting stakeholders

• A quality mechanism

• A Committee

• An organisation

•Registering an organisation

•Preparing & filing an application

•Awareness of the stakeholders

•Commitment to a quality product

•Promotional activities

Thanks