Why in News?

• Odisha’s KandhamalHaldi (Turmeric) will soon get a Geographical Indications (GI) tag.
• It is a few steps away from receiving this tag.

Odisha’s KandhamalHaldi (Turmeric):

• Its registration was moved by Kandhamal Apex Spices Association for Marketing and was accepted under sub-section (1) of Section 13 of Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
•  KandhamalHaldi is famous for its healing properties.
•  It is a main cash crop of the tribal people in Kandhamal.
• Apart from domestic use, it is also used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes.

Geographical Indication (GI):

• GI tag is a name or sign used on certain products which correspond to a specific geographical location or origin.
•  It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having a special quality and established reputation.
• The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their production while earning a premium and derive an improved livelihood.
• The goods and products having such tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it the required edge in the global market.
•  It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity.
• The registration of GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
•  Violation of GI tags is a punishable offence under law.
• GI is covered as an element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for Protection of Industrial Property.
• At the international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
• In India, GI tag Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999 governs it.
• This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also the Registrar of Geographical Indications and is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.