Geographical Indications as being used currently includes both the above concepts and it refers to “… indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a country, 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 22.1 of the TRIPS Agreement)
The desire of mankind for quality and genuine premium products such as silk, cotton and spices, having distinct characteristics originating from a particular region, have over centuries created an impact on human civilization which has resulted in discovery of new sea routes and new continents. These identifications became so important that these regions started specializing in producing these unique products, which led to identifying such goods as originating from a particular region, which over a period of time has become renowned globally. Rising demand for such products among the consumers, gave rise for counterfeit products, which began to tarnish the image of genuine products. A effort to safeguard the interest of the producers and consumers led to evolution and conceptualization of Geographical Indications.
The Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks has published the Draft Manual of Geographical Indications Practice and Procedure. Comments and suggestions may be sent to sukhdeep.ipo@nic.in by 20th April, 2011.
