Summary
This post provides a detailed statistical overview of Geographical Indications (GI) applications filed and registered in India over the past decade. It traces the evolution of GI law since the enactment of the Geographical Indication of Goods Act in 2003, initiated to comply with TRIPS obligations. The analysis highlights the significant rise in filings, with southern states such as Karnataka and Tamil Nadu leading in registrations. The data further reveals varying trends in annual applications, as well as the dominant categories of goods registered. The post underscores the potential for further GI protection, with over 3,000 goods in India identified as potential GIs.
Overview
India’s Geographical Indications (GI) regime was established under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which came into force with effect from September 15, 2003, in compliance with India’s obligations under the TRIPS Agreement. The first application for registration was filed for Darjeeling Tea. Since inception, filings have reflected an escalating trend.
From September 2003 until 31 March 201, 479 GI applications had been received at the Indian GI Registry. A total of 236 GI applications had been granted GI status by the Indian GI Registry as of that date. Registrations granted include goods from outside India, among them Peruvian Pisco from Peru, Champagne from France, Napa Valley from the USA, Scotch Whisky from the UK, Prosciutto di Parma from Italy, Porto & Douro from Portugal, and Tequila from Mexico.
Trends in GI Filings
In 2004-05, only 15 applications were filed; the following year this rose to 27. The year 2009-10 saw the first filing of a GI authorised user application, alongside 40 GI applications in total. The year 2011-12 recorded a substantial increase, with 148 applications filed; filings fell sharply in 2012-13 to 24 before rising to 75 in 2013-14.
Southern states have consistently led in obtaining GI registrations. As of March 2013, Karnataka led with 32 GI registrations, followed by Tamil Nadu with 24, Andhra Pradesh with 22, and Kerala with 20. These four states together accounted for over 50 per cent of total GI registrations granted in India. The leading categories of goods under which applications were filed were handicrafts, textiles, agriculture, manufactured goods, food, and natural products. According to a survey conducted at the time, India had over 3,000 potential GIs requiring protection.
GI Applications Filed and Registered in India: 2004-05 to 2013-14
| Year | GI Applications Filed | GI Applications Registered |
| 2004-05 | 15 | 11 |
| 2005-06 | 27 | 19 |
| 2006-07 | 38 | 3 |
| 2007-08 | 42 | 61 |
| 2008-09 | 44 | 45 |
| 2009-10 | 40 | 14 |
| 2010-11 | 27 | 29 |
| 2011-12 | 148 | 23 |
| 2012-13 | 24 | 21 |
| 2013-14 | 75 | 22 |
Disclaimer
This article is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult a qualified attorney before acting on any matter discussed here.