GI tag to Mithila Makhana

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

The government has awarded Geographical Indication (GI) tag to Mithila Makhana.
Mithila Makhana or Makhan is a special variety of aquatic fox nut cultivated in Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal.

GI Tag

A geographical indication or GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
Geographical Indications are part of the intellectual property rights that comes under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
In India, Geographical Indications registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act of 1999.
This tag is valid for a period of 10 yearsfollowing which it can be renewed.
GI tags are covered under World Trade Organization.
Geographical indications are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.
It is basically an assurance that the product is coming from that specific area. It's kind of trademark in the international market.
Karnataka has the highest number of GI tags i.e. 47products followed by Tamil Nadu (39).

Benefits of registration of Geographical Indications

It confers legal protection to Geographical Indications in India.
Prevents unauthorized use of a Registered Geographical Indication by others.
It provides legal protection to Indian Geographical Indications which in turn boost exports.
It promotes economic prosperity of producers of goods produced in a geographical territory.

How a geographical indication is different from a trade mark?

A trade mark is a sign which is used in the course of trade and it distinguishes goods or services of one enterprise from those of other enterprises.
Whereas a geographical indication is an indication used to identify goods having special characteristics originating from a definite geographical territory.

Significance of GI Tag to Mithila Makhana

GI Tag to Mthila Makhana is expected to help growers get the maximum price for their premium produce.
Mithila Makhana registered with GI Tag, farmers will get profit and it will be easier to earn. Due to Geographical Indication Tag to Mithila Makhana in the festive season, people outside Bihar will be able to use this auspicious material with reverence.