Role Of GI In Preservation Of Cultural Identity

Judith Melbha S, Tamilnadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University, Chennai

ABSTRACT

The main role of the Geographical Indication is to protect products which has traditional knowledge, cultural practices, products which are unique and are rooted down to a specific Geographical region or origin. India understood the significance of Geographical Indications in Safeguarding the unique identity, characteristics, and quality of a product to improve the economic development to the communities within that origin. Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 protects the GIs in India. This Act aims to provide protection to unique products and helps to get recognition to the products which originates from a specific location and ensures better livelihood to the communities producing those products. The Act also provides legal protection to these products which are registered as GI products against any misuse, misrepresentation, and imitation. The authenticity and reputation of the traditional products and practices are thereby protected under the GI Act. Many positive impacts have arisen after the implementation of the GI Act in India.

Keywords: Geographical Indications, cultural identity, traditional practices, specific origin.