Every region of the earth has unique importance. Every portion of the land has its own specialty and identity. These regions of the earth are identified by the beauty of nature, culture, art, and craft of the humans living there. The specialty and identity of a particular good or product are geographically attributed to a particular location, which becomes well known as a geographical indication of the territory.
A geographical indication (GI) tag is an identification applied to products that trace their origin to a specific geographical location. The qualities, place of origin, and group preserving the product; provide uniqueness to the product. The products can be both natural and handcrafted. The Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, issues GI tags. The first GI tag was facilitated to Darjeeling Tea (Agriculture), West Bengal.
GI Tag significance
- GI tag helps protect traditional knowledge and the cultural heritage of the product; it provides recognition to those communities that preserved the knowledge over the generations. - The customer is assured of the authenticity and quality of the product. - The product receives nation-wide and international recognition. - GI tags support artisans and farmers in rural areas to earn a better livelihood. - This boost in overall branding of the country and its image worldwide - GI tag provided a boost in tourism as well. Art inclined tourists prefer visiting the place, visiting the artisans, and exploring the art form.
Truly Tribal products play an essential role in preserving and promoting heritage products and also provide social benefits to the communities involved in their manufacturing. Skilled artisans are given social media recognition, and the manufactured artifacts are exported globally.
GI Tag in Maharashtra
Today 1st May, is commemorated as Maharashtra Day and celebrated across the state. Two states were formed: the Gujrati-speaking population became part of Gujarat; and the Marathi- and Konkani speaking crowd became part of Maharashtra. It’s a public holiday in the state, which results in government offices like banks, schools, and colleges remaining closed on the day.
Maharashtra state is situated in the western peninsular region of India. It is the second-most populous state and the most prominent for software parks in India. Maharashtra has 33 GI tags, the latest being Alphonso, Sangli Turmeric, and Kolhapuri Chappal.
Handicraft Products:
Solapur Chaddar- It is the first product to obtain a GI tag, and these blankets are famous for their design and durability.
Solapur Terry Towel–The towel has received global recognition, and it is made of cotton yarn.
Puneri Pagadi – Pagadi is a symbol of pride and honour for Pune city.
Paithani Sarees and Fabrics – Sarees are made of pure silk/cotton thread and are characterised by an ornamental zari border and pallu.
Warli Painting – self expressive art of the Sahyadri tribe, is most recognised at the global level.
Karvath Kati Sarees & Fabrics -These sarees have a unique saw-edged pattern on the border.
Kolhapuri Chappal – Handmade leather product has an exquisite design.
Manufactured Products:
Nashik Valley Wine
Agricultural Products:
1. Mahabaleshwar Strawberry
2. Nashik Grapes
3. Kolhapuri Jaggery
4. Nagpur Orange
5. Ajara Ghansal Rice
6. Mangalwedha Jowar
7. Sindhudurg & Ratnagiri Kokum
8. Waghya Ghevada
9. Navapur Tur Dal
10. Vengurla Cashew
11. Lasalgaon Onion
12. Sangli Raisins
13. Beed Custard Apple
14. Jalna Sweet Orange
15. Waigaon Turmeric
16. Purandar Fig
17. Jalgaon Bharit Brinjal
18. Solapur Pomegranate
19. Bhiwapur Chilli
20. Ambemohar Rice
21. Dahanu Gholvad Chikoo
22. Jalgaon Banana
23. Marathwada Kesar Mango
24. Alphonso
25. Sangli Turmeric