Kashmir Craft Geographical Indication (GI) Registry
Counterfeit Prevention – Guarding artisans' work against imitation globally.
GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION PROCESS
The Geographical Indication (GI) Process is a stringent and multifaceted certification designed to authenticate crafts that originate from a specific geographical region and carry with them centuries of tradition. For Kashmiri crafts to receive GI status, they must meet specific criteria, including:
Traditional Techniques: Hand-woven Pashmina, intricate Papier-Mâché, Khatamband woodwork, etc.
Cultural Relevance:The product should have a rich cultural history that is identifiable with a specific region within Kashmir.
Geographical Origin: The product must originate within the geographical boundaries of Kashmir to be eligible for GI status.
The Geographical Indication (GI) certification is a rigorous and well-defined process that authenticates products based on their geographical origin and unique traditional qualities. For Kashmiri crafts, this certification acts as a protective mechanism that not only preserves the cultural and geographical heritage but also ensures that these crafts receive global recognition and protection against counterfeiting. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the GI certification process:
Step 1: Identification of the Product
The first stage involves identifying a product that meets the criteria for GI certification. For Kashmiri crafts, this means identifying products that are inherently linked to the region’s cultural, historical, and geographical uniqueness. These products must possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics that are exclusively due to their place of origin in Kashmir. In the case of handicrafts, this often includes:
Traditional Techniquess
Hand-woven Pashmina, intricate Papier-Mâche, Khatamband woodwork, etc.
Cultural Relevance
The product should have a rich cultural history that is identifiable with a specific region within Kashmir.
Geographical Origin
The product must originate within the geographical boundaries of Kashmir to be eligible for GI status.
Step 2: Formation of an Application Group
Once a product is identified, it undergoes a rigorous verification process to ensure it meets the standards for GI certification. This includes:
Collecting Evidence
The group collects evidence to demonstrate that the product is unique to its geographical area and that its qualities are directly related to that origin.
Documentation
Detailed historical and geographical documentation is required to prove that the craft has a long-standing tradition and reputation associated with its region.
Product Specifications
The group must provide a clear description of the production processes, traditional methods, and raw materials used in the creation of the product.
Step 3: Filing the GI Application
The next step is filing the GI application with the Geographical Indications Registry, which in India is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The application contains:
Detailed Product Description
A comprehensive description of the product, its characteristics, and its unique features.
Proof of Origin
Documents that show that the product is native to a specific geographical location in Kashmir and that its unique qualities arise because of this geographical location.Evidence proving that the product has a strong historical and cultural association with the region, dating back generations.
Process of Production
A step-by-step explanation of how the product is made, including the traditional techniques and skills passed down through generations.
Step 4: Examination by the Registry
Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a thorough examination by the Geographical Indications Registry. This examination involves:
Evaluation of Documentation
The Registry reviews all the submitted documents to ensure that the product genuinely meets the required criteria for geographical indication.
Field Inspection
Experts may visit the geographical region where the product is produced to verify the claims made in the application. They may examine production facilities, raw material sourcing, and craftsmanship to ensure the product is truly linked to its place of origin.
Public Consultation
The application is then made available for public examination, allowing stakeholders to raise objections or support the certification. This is an important step to ensure transparency in the certification process.
Step 5: Publication in the GI Journal
If the application successfully passes the examination process, it is published in the GI Journal. This publication serves as a public announcement of the product's potential GI status and allows for any objections to be raised before the final certification is granted.
Key Features
Monitoring of carbon footprints, encouragement of sustainable sourcing, and initiatives aimed at reducing waste and environmental impact.
Key Features
Monitoring of carbon footprints, encouragement of sustainable sourcing, and initiatives aimed at reducing waste and environmental impact.
Key Features
Monitoring of carbon footprints, encouragement of sustainable sourcing, and initiatives aimed at reducing waste and environmental impact.
Step 6: Opposition Period
After the publication of the application, there is a statutory opposition period (typically around 3 months) during which any interested party may file an objection against the GI registration. During this period:
Objections
If an objection is raised, the Geographical Indications Registry investigates the legitimacy of the claims, and both parties are given the opportunity to present their arguments.
Resolution
If no objections are raised, or if the opposition is resolved in favor of the applicant, the process moves forward.
Claim Investigation
The Geographical Indications Registry investigates any objections and evaluates their legitimacy.
Step 7: Issuance of GI Certification
Once the opposition period is complete, and if there are no valid objections, the product is granted GI certification. This certification provides the product with legal protection and the right to use the GI Tag. The certification includes:
GI Certificate
A formal certificate issued to the Application Group, confirming that the product is now officially recognized as a Geographical Indication of Kashmir.
Legal Protection
The GI certification gives the product legal protection against misuse, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use of the geographical name by producers outside the certified area.
Exclusive Rights
Only authorized producers within the geographical area can use the GI Tag, ensuring that the product’s unique qualities are preserved.
Step 8: Monitoring and Enforcement
After certification, it is essential to maintain strict standards to ensure the product's integrity. The Application Group and local authorities are responsible for monitoring production and ensuring that the standards set during the certification process are maintained. This includes:
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular inspections ensure that producers maintain compliance with the standards outlined in the GI application.
Quality Control
Local authorities monitor production to ensure consistent quality.
Enforcement Actions
Take legal action against violators who attempt to misuse the GI certification or counterfeit the product.