India Records Major Surge in GI Registrations During 2025–26

India Witnesses Record Growth in GI Registrations

India Records Major Surge in GI Registrations During 2025–26: India recorded a significant expansion in Geographical Indication (GI) registrations during FY 2025–26, with 125 new GI tags being granted. This increased the country’s total number of registered GI products to 822, reflecting growing efforts to preserve traditional knowledge, indigenous products, and regional heritage.

The latest registrations highlight the increasing awareness among states about protecting local products through Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) while creating better market opportunities for artisans, farmers, and rural entrepreneurs.

Static GK fact: The Geographical Indications Registry of India is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and functions under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM).

Madhya Pradesh Emerges as the Top Performer

Madhya Pradesh secured the highest number of new GI registrations with 26 products, emerging as the national leader during the financial year. The state received recognition for several traditional handicrafts, tribal products, and agricultural varieties.

Prominent additions include Khajuraho Stone Craft, Betul Bharewa Metal Craft, Gwalior Paper Mache Craft, Gwalior Stone Craft, Sitahi Kutki, Nagdaman Kutki, Baigani Arhar, and Mahakoshal Chhatriya Chawal. These registrations strengthen the identity of indigenous communities while boosting rural livelihoods.

Eastern India Registers Remarkable Progress

West Bengal followed closely with 24 new GI registrations, taking its total number of GI-tagged products to 59. Popular products receiving GI status include Jalbhara Sandesh, Janai Manohara, Santiniketan Batik, Santiniketan Ektara, Banglar Nolen Gur, Balagarh Traditional Boats, and Krishnanagar Clay Dolls.

Jharkhand also performed strongly by securing 11 new GI tags, with products such as Tussar Silk Sarees, Dokra Craft, Bhagaiya Sarees, Jadupatia Paintings, Kesharia Kalakand, and Tribal Jewellery gaining legal protection.

Static GK Tip: West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (WBNUJS), Kolkata, hosts the DPIIT Chair that actively supports GI registration and intellectual property research.

Importance of Geographical Indication Tags

A Geographical Indication (GI) is an intellectual property right granted to products whose quality, reputation, or characteristics are directly linked to a specific geographical region. In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

GI tags help prevent imitation, improve product branding, increase export potential, and provide higher incomes for local producers. They also preserve centuries-old cultural traditions and encourage sustainable rural development.

Distribution of GI Products in India

Among India’s 822 registered GI products, handicrafts account for nearly 53%, while agricultural products contribute about 31%. The remaining registrations include food products, manufactured goods, and natural products.

The widespread distribution demonstrates India’s rich cultural diversity and the growing importance of protecting regional specialties through intellectual property rights.

Static GK fact: India’s first GI-tagged product was Darjeeling Tea, which received GI registration in 2004 and remains one of the country’s most recognized geographical indications worldwide.

Significance for India

The sharp rise in GI registrations reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding traditional products while promoting rural entrepreneurship and exports. By legally protecting indigenous goods, states can strengthen local economies, preserve cultural heritage, and enhance India’s presence in global specialty product markets.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

India Records Major Surge in GI Registrations During 2025–26: