GI Tag for Mithila Makhana
Source: Indian Express
GS II: Policies and Developmental Studies

What is discussed under GI Tag for Mithila Makhana?

1. What Is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?
2. About Mithila Makhana

Why in News?

• The government has awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Mithila Makhana, to help growers get the maximum price for their premium produce.
• According to the GI registry certificate, the GI has been registered in the name of Mithilanchal Makhana Utpadak Sangh.

What Is a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag?

• A geographical indicator (GI) is a label applied to products with a particular geographic origin and characteristics or a reputation derived from that origin.
• An indication that a product is made in a certain location is necessary for a sign to be considered a GI.
• A GI is mainly a product made (crafts and industrial items), an agricultural product, or a natural product that comes from a certain geographic region.
• Geographical indications are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.
• Once a product gets this tag, any person or company cannot sell a similar item under that name.
• This tag is valid for a period of 10 years following which it can be renewed.
• Any group of people, producers, organisations, or authorities created by or operating under the legislation are eligible to apply for GI.
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.

GI tag products

• Basmati rice

  

• Darjeeling Tea
• Chanderi Fabric
• Mysore Silk
• Kullu Shawl
• Kangra Tea
• Thanjavur Paintings
• Allahabad Surkha
• Farrukhabad Prints
• Lucknow Zardozi
• Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving

Benefits of GI registration

• Legal protection for that item
• Prevention against unauthorised use by others
• Promoting exports
• Assurance of quality and distinctiveness of the item

Registration process

• Filing of application
• Preliminary scrutiny and examination
• Show cause notice
• Publication in the geographical indications journal
• Opposition to registration
• Registration

About Mithila Makhana

• Mithila Makhana is makhana (aquatic fox nuts) grown in the Mithila region of Bihar.
• In Maithili (language), it is also referred to as Makhan.
• It is one of the three prestigious cultural identities of Mithila – the other two being pan (betel leaf) and machh (fish).
• Makhana is loaded with protein, fibre, iron, calcium and other essential nutrients that help benefit overall health.
• The geographical area of production of “Mithila Makhana” takes place in 21 out of 38 districts, mostly situated in the North of the Bihar state.

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