Srinagar, February 15 – Seven products from Jammu and Kashmir have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) status, while another 20 are in the process of being registered, officials said on Sunday.
Officials added, "This is a significant development for the agricultural and traditional produce sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Seven products from the Union Territory have been awarded Geographical Indication (GI) status, which strengthens their legal protection and market identity."
"The products that have been recognized with GI status include Sulai Honey from Ramban, Bhaderwah Rajmash, Kaladi of Udhampur–Ramnagar, Basmati Rice from Jammu, Ramban Anardana, Mushqbudji Rice, and internationally renowned Kashmir Saffron."
Officials stated, "The GI status will help protect these regionally specific products from imitation and misuse, while also enhancing their branding and export potential."
"The certification formally recognizes the unique geographical origin and traditional cultivation practices associated with these products. In addition to the seven recognized products, approximately 20 more crops and products from Jammu and Kashmir are currently in the process of being registered for GI status, reflecting a focused effort to protect indigenous varieties and boost farmer incomes."
"Meanwhile, agricultural universities in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu and the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, have registered a total of 164 patents, marking progress in research, innovation, and agricultural technology development in the region."
"Securing GI status is a major step towards strengthening intellectual property rights in the agricultural and related sectors, with an emphasis on value addition and global competitiveness," officials added.
A GI tag is an intellectual property right (IPR) issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999, that identifies products originating from a specific location, possessing unique qualities or reputations due to their origin.
It prevents unauthorized use, aids in marketing, and protects traditional, agricultural, or manufactured goods.
It is a label on goods (such as handicrafts, food, and agricultural products) that highlights a specific geographical origin, such as a region or town.