A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign on goods that have a specific origin and qualities or a reputation due to that place: Darjeeling tea, Kanchipuram silk, Banarasi sarees. India's GI Act of 1999, in force since 2003, follows the WTO's TRIPS agreement. Once registered, only authorised producers of the region may use the name.
Key facts
- Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, in force from 15 September 2003; based on TRIPS Article 22.
- Darjeeling tea was the first GI recognised in India (2004-05).
- 822 registered GIs as of 2026. (as of 23 Oct 2026)
- Examples: Mysore silk, Alphonso mango, Malabar pepper, Nilgiri tea, Madhubani paintings, Warli painting and Odisha Pattachitra.
Why exams ask about it
Which state a GI product comes from, the first GI, the Act's year and the latest additions are the usual questions.