What is GI Tag?

A GI Tag, or Geographical Indication, is a designation given to a specific product that is intricately linked to a particular geographical location. This certification signifies that the product is crafted using traditional methods and holds a distinct reputation due to its geographical origin. Typically applied to items such as industrial products, foodstuffs, agricultural products, spirit drinks, and handicrafts, the GI Tag safeguards against unauthorized use of the product’s name by anyone other than the officially registered user.

Who issued GI Tag?

The issuance of Geographical Indication (GI) tags in India is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The Geographical Indication Registry, operating under the Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is responsible for granting GI tags.

Under this act, the GI Tag grants rights to the holders, allowing them to use the indication and safeguard against its unauthorized use by third parties producing products that do not originate from the specified region or lack the necessary quality and standards.

It is essential to note that the protection afforded by a GI tag does not extend to preventing others from employing similar production techniques as those used by the original right holder.

Under Articles 1 (2) and 10 of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, geographical indications are covered as an element of IPRs. India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999 to comply with the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) has come into force with effect from 15th September 2003. The Act is three fold, firstly by specific law governing the geographical indication of goods in the country which could adequately protect the interest of producers of such goods, secondly, to exclude unauthorized persons from misusing the geographical indications and to protect the consumers from deception and thirdly, to promote goods bearing Indian Geographical Indications in the export market.

H.P. became the 1″ State to Formulate “Policy for the Registration and Protection of Geographical Indications of Goods in Himachal Pradesh”. H.P. Patent Information Centre (HPPIC) files application on behalf of any association of persons, producers, organization in the State of H.P.

GI Tag in Himachal Pradesh

Latest GI Tags Added to Himachal Pradesh in 2026

In 2026, Himachal Pradesh received 13 new Geographical Indication (GI) Tags, taking the state’s total number of GI-tagged products to 24. These newly recognized products represent the rich cultural heritage, traditional handicrafts, textiles, agricultural produce, and famous local foods of different regions of the state.

The latest additions include Lingchay, Gudma, Ransingha, Wood Carving Craft, Handmade Galicha, Spiti Seabuckthorn (Chharma), Salooni Safed Makka, Chamba Metal Art, Sirmauri Loiya, Sepu Vadi of Mandi, Kinnauri Apple, Kinnauri Jewellery, and Kinnauri Topi (Thepang).

Kullu Shawl

Geographical Indication:

• Registered under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, on December 10, 2004.

Description:

• Originated in Kullu Valley, particularly along the river valley of Beas in Himachal Pradesh.
• Kullu shawls are crafted using various materials, including local wool, Merino wool, Angora, Pashmina, synthetic yarn, Yalk wool, Cotton, and other handcrafted materials.
• A distinctive feature of Kullu shawls is the horizontal stripes or bands running widthwise at the lateral ends.
• Bands are decorated with a variety of patterns woven in vibrant colors like yellow, green, white, or red on a black background, or orange and green on a brown base.

Kangra Painting

Geographical Indication: 

• Registered under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 on April 2, 2012, obtaining Geographical indication No. 381.

Description:

• Kangra art is a visual expression of a cultural movement rooted in a significant spiritual upsurge.
• The principal center of Kangra paintings was the Kangra Valley.
• Artists worked under the patronage of the hill Rajas of Guler, Kangra, and Nurpur.
• The Bhakti cult served as the driving force behind Kangra paintings.
• The love story of Radha and Krishna was a primary source of spiritual experience, forming the basis for the visual expression.
• The sentiment of love remained a consistent inspiration and the central theme of Kangra painting.
• Kangra paintings adopted a naturalistic approach.
• Employed cool, fresh colors that were extracted from minerals and vegetables.
• The colors possessed an enamel-like luster, contributing to the unique aesthetic of Kangra Painting.

Chamba Rumal

Geographical Indication:

• Registered under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 on January 22, 2007, obtaining Geographical indication No. 79.

Description:

• The term “Rumal” is of Persian origin, referring to a handkerchief or a square piece of cloth.
• “Chamba Rumal” is associated with the embroidered work on hand-spun ‘khaddar’ or fine muslin cloth, typically in square and oblong formats.
• Originated and flourished during the 17th-18th centuries in Chamba town, Himachal Pradesh.
• “Chamba Rumal” is a pictorial craft representing unique embroidery.
• Derives inspiration from paintings, featuring a general layout and themes.
• Predominance of figures of deities, especially Vishnu in various forms.
• The “dorukha-tanka,” a double satin stitch, is a unique embroidery technique used in Chamba Rumal.
• This technique is distinctive and not found elsewhere in the Indian embroidery tradition.

Kinnauri Shawl

Geographical Indication:

• Registered under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 on December 4, 2008.

Description:

• The woolen art fabric of Kinnaur has ancient roots and thrived in the erstwhile state of Rampur Bushehar.
• Kinnaur has been a significant nesting place for Hinduism and Buddhism.
• Known as “Chhali” in the local dialect.
• Average size is 42″x96,” but it can vary based on the body structure of individuals.
• Ladies typically wear “chhali toproo” with a designing pattern, while gents wear plain “chhali.”
• Recognizable by traditional designs on woolen shawls and caps.
• Decorative designs are largely geometrical, executed in soft and pleasing pastel shades.
• Intricate use of stylized Buddhist symbols and complex graphic patterns, including hexagons (gyatongor tank) and squares (palpe).
• Buddhist symbols are executed in the five primary colors – white, yellow, red, green, and blue, representing water, earth, fire, ether, and air, respectively.
• Reds, yellows, and blues usually dominate the ornamentation.

Kangra Tea

Geographical Indication: 2005

• On April 11, 2023, the European Commission (EC) granted protected geographical indication (PGI) status to Kangra tea. This makes Kangra tea the second Indian product to receive a GI registration with the European Union (EU).

Quality and Historical Significance:

• The quality of Kangra tea has been historically acclaimed. The Gazetteer of Kangra district (1882-83) mentioned that Kangra tea was probably superior to that produced in any other part of India.
• The demand for Kangra tea steadily increased, and it gained international recognition. Gold and silver medals were won by Kangra tea in London and Amsterdam markets in the late nineteenth century (1886 to 1895).
• The Kangra valley, during the 1920s, produced nearly half the green tea manufactured in India, exporting it to Afghanistan and Iran.

Botanical Information:

• Kangra tea is derived from the leaves, buds, and tender stems of plants with the botanical name Camellia sinensis or Thea sinensis.
• Grown in the southern slopes of Dhauladhar ranges of western Himalayas within the altitude range of 900m to 1400 m.

Lahauli Socks and Gloves

Registration Year:

• Registered under Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 on September 2021.

Description:

• Made from indigenous wool sheared from local sheep in Lahaul and Spiti.
• A Lahauli pair of socks is knit in parts, using four double-pointed needles.
• The upper part of the foot is knit using eight colors into a traditional eye-catching pattern, locally called ‘dashi,’ which comprises patterns composed by seven or eight types of motifs.
• Each ‘dashi’ is laid out in four or five rows in different colors.
• Crafted by women experts in Lahaul and Spiti.
• The designs are very attractive while maintaining the functionality of providing warmth.

Kala Zeera

Registration Year:

• Registered under Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in March 2019.

Description:

• Also known as Himachali Kala Zeera or black cumin.
• One of the most economically important medicinal plants and spices that grow largely in Himachal Pradesh.
• Thrives in the high mountainous regions of Kinnaur, Kullu, Chamba, Shimla, Sirmaur, Lahaul – Spiti, Pangi, and Bharmaur, at an elevation of 1850 – 3100 meters.
• Major difference from other species is the presence of higher concentration of volatile oils, aldehydes, and a high percentage of Cuminaldehyde.

Kinnauri Chuli Oil

Registration Year: 

• Registered under Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in March 2019.

Description:

• The Chulli (wild apricot) used for the oil is mainly grown as wild in the upper reaches of Himachal Pradesh under the care of nature.
• This is an ORGANIC fruit.
• The oil from Chulli is already being used to a limited extent by local tribes for food, massaging, and other homemade remedies.

Basmati Rice

Registration Year: 2020

Description:

• Registered under Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in the year 2020.
• Basmati is a special long-grain aromatic rice grown in a particular Indo-Gangetic Plains geographical region of the Indian subcontinent.
• Historically produced in undivided India for over 200 years.
• The geographical region for Basmati Rice of HP includes specific areas within Himachal Pradesh.

Chamba Chappal

Registration Year: 

• Registered under Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 in September 2021.

Description:

• Chamba is famous for handmade chappals, and this trade is concentrated in the hands of cobbler families.
• Craftsmen use leather from sheep, goat, and calf skin for the purpose.
• The striking feature of Chamba Chappal is the embroidery done on them with silk and golden threads called Russi-Tilla.
• Motifs usually include lantana flower and leaves.

Himachal Lingchay (Shoulder-wrap Shawl)

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in 2026 under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

Description:

• Lingchay is a traditional shoulder-wrap shawl of Lahaul & Spiti.
• It is handwoven using locally produced sheep wool.
• The shawl provides warmth in the cold Himalayan climate while reflecting the cultural identity of the tribal communities.
• Traditional weaving techniques and indigenous patterns have been preserved for generations.
• The GI tag protects this unique textile heritage of Lahaul & Spiti.

Himachal Gudma (Woollen Blanket)

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in 2026.

Description:

• Gudma is a traditional woollen blanket mainly produced in Kullu district, especially the Giabong Valley.
• It is woven from locally available wool using traditional handloom methods.
• Gudma is known for its durability, warmth, and thick texture.
• It has been used by local communities for generations during harsh winters.
• The GI recognition preserves this traditional weaving craft.

Himachal Ransingha

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in June 2026.

Description:

• Ransingha is a traditional curved metal wind instrument of Himachal Pradesh.
• It is widely used during religious ceremonies, fairs, festivals, and temple processions.
• The instrument is handcrafted by skilled local artisans.
• It forms an important part of the cultural and folk music traditions of the state.
• The GI tag helps preserve this unique musical heritage.

Himachal Wood Carving Craft

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in June 2026.

Description:

• Himachal Pradesh has a rich tradition of wood carving found in temples, houses, and heritage buildings.
• Skilled artisans create intricate carvings on deodar and other local woods.
• Floral, mythological, and geometric designs are commonly used.
• The craft reflects the artistic and architectural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
• GI recognition protects the traditional craftsmanship and promotes local artisans.

Himachal Handmade Galicha

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in June 2026.

Description:

• Handmade Galicha is a traditional carpet crafted mainly in Sirmaur and Hamirpur districts.
• These carpets are handwoven using wool and traditional weaving techniques.
• They are known for their attractive patterns, durability, and fine craftsmanship.
• The designs reflect the local culture and artistic traditions of Himachal Pradesh.
• The GI tag provides recognition to local carpet weavers.

Spiti Seabuckthorn (Chharma)

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Seabuckthorn (locally known as Chharma) grows naturally in the cold desert region of Spiti Valley.
• The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and medicinal properties.
• It is used in preparing juices, herbal products, cosmetics, and health supplements.
• The crop is well adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of the Himalayan region.
• GI recognition highlights the unique agricultural identity of Spiti Valley.

Salooni Safed Makka

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Salooni Safed Makka is a traditional white maize variety cultivated in Salooni region of Chamba district.
• It is known for its superior taste, nutritional value, and adaptability to hill agriculture.
• The crop has been cultivated by local farmers for generations.
• It plays an important role in the traditional food culture of the region.
• The GI tag protects this indigenous maize variety.

Chamba Metal Art

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Chamba Metal Art represents the traditional metal craftsmanship of Chamba district.
• Skilled artisans prepare decorative, religious, and utility items using traditional techniques.
• Brass and copper are the primary metals used in this craft.
• The art reflects the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Chamba.
• GI recognition promotes the preservation of this traditional handicraft.

Sirmauri Loiya

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Sirmauri Loiya is a traditional woollen wrap associated with the Trans-Giri region of Sirmaur district.
• It is handwoven from locally available wool.
• The garment is valued for its warmth, comfort, and traditional designs.
• It forms an integral part of the cultural attire of the local communities.
• The GI tag safeguards this traditional textile heritage.

Sepu Vadi of Mandi

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Sepu Vadi is a traditional dish originating from Mandi district.
• It is prepared using soaked and ground black gram (urad dal), which is shaped into dumplings and cooked in a rich spinach-based gravy.
• The dish is an essential part of Himachali Dham and festive occasions.
• It represents the unique culinary heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
• The GI tag recognizes and protects this traditional food.

Kinnauri Apple

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Kinnauri Apple is cultivated in the high-altitude orchards of Kinnaur district.
• The apples are known for their excellent colour, crisp texture, sweetness, and long shelf life.
• The unique climate and soil conditions contribute to their superior quality.
• Apple cultivation is a major source of livelihood for farmers in Kinnaur.
• GI recognition enhances the identity and market value of Kinnauri apples.

Kinnauri Jewellery

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• Kinnauri Jewellery is famous for its intricate silver craftsmanship.
• The jewellery features traditional Himalayan motifs inspired by local culture and Buddhism.
• Necklaces, earrings, rings, and ornaments are handcrafted by skilled artisans.
• It forms an important part of the traditional attire of Kinnaur.
• The GI tag protects this unique handicraft tradition.

Kinnauri Topi (Thepang)

Geographical Indication:

• Registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) in July 2026.

Description:

• The Kinnauri Topi, locally known as Thepang, is the traditional cap of Kinnaur district.
• It is made from handwoven wool and is recognized by its distinctive coloured velvet band.
• The cap symbolizes the cultural identity and pride of the people of Kinnaur.
• It is commonly worn during festivals, social gatherings, and religious ceremonies.
• The GI tag preserves this iconic cultural symbol of Himachal Pradesh.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Consider the following pairs regarding the recently GI-tagged products of Himachal Pradesh:

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (b) Only two

Explanation:

• Sirmauri Loiya belongs to the Trans-Giri region of Sirmaur.
• Salooni Safed Makka is associated with Salooni in Chamba district.
• Himachal Handmade Galicha has received the GI tag for Sirmaur and Hamirpur districts, not Kullu.

Q2. With reference to the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, consider the following statements:

1. A GI tag protects both the geographical name and the production technique.
2. A Geographical Indication is a collective intellectual property right, and producers can use it by registering as Authorised Users.
3. GI registration is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1: Incorrect. A GI tag protects the geographical name/indication, not the production technique. The technique itself is not protected like a patent.
• Statement 2: Correct. GI is a collective right, and eligible producers become Authorised Users to use the registered GI.
• Statement 3: Correct. A GI registration remains valid for 10 years and may be renewed indefinitely every ten years.

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