Zardalu Mango As Geographical Indication: A Comprehensive Study
- IJLLR Journal
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
Raushni Ranjan Pradhan, Hidayatullah National Law University
INTRODUCTION
A “geographical indication” (GI) is a symbol used on products that have a specified regional origin and have trade or reputations that are unique to that region. “A GI sign must identify a product as coming from a specific location to function properly. Geographical indications are geographical names (or terms linked with a place) used to identify the origin and quality, reputation, or other attributes of products ("Champagne", "Tequila", or "Roquefort")”. GI is a status which is granted to a product which is having special connection to a particular region or locality. According to “Section 2(g) of GI Act, 1999” the goods are segregated in four parts that are Agricultural for example (Basmati rice), Natural (Makrana marble), Handicraft (Madhubani paintings), Food stuff (Mangoes). The GI Act was commenced in India after the ratification of TRIPS agreement. The “agreement” sets a minimum standard for the protection of goods which is registered as GI and it need to be followed by all WTO members. If we talk about India, it is very rich in culture all the states have different products with the speciality which have different character and quality and which qualifies to have GI. In this research paper I will discuss about zardalu or jardalu mango of Bhagalpur (Bihar) which got GI in 2018. The zardalu mango from Bhagalpur is the second most well-known item from Bihar, after "tussar silk". “A piece of zardalu mango typically weighs between 220 gm and 250 gm and has a distinct aroma and dazzling yellow tint. Zardalu mango is known for its unique aroma, sweetness, and nutritional value. It is a suitable fruit for those with diabetes or stomach issues.” It contains fibre and enzymes, which are beneficial to the abdominal muscles and digestive system. Every year the mango is sent to Prime Minister, President etc. as a token of respect. Since 2007, zardalu mangoes are sourced straight from orchards and packaged as safe gifts.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF ZARDALU MANGO
“Mangoes have been cultivated in South Asia for thousands of years and spread to Southeast Asia between the fifth and fourth centuries BCE. By the 10th century CE, cultivation had begun in East Africa, as reported by 14th-century Moroccan traveler Battuta in Mogadishu”. Mangoes are now grown in “frost-free tropical and warmer subtropical climates”, including Brazil, Bermuda, West Indies, and Mexico. “Maharaja Rahmat Ali Khan Bahadur” of Kharagpur introduced the zardalu mango to the Bhagalpur district. “Jardalu Aam Utpadak Sangh (Jardalu mango producers' union)” applied for the GI tag in Madhuban, Maheshi village, Sultanganj block, Bhagalpur district sometime between 1810- 1820. The Geographical Indications Journal published an article about Jardalu mango, a unique product from Bhagalpur, on November 28, 2017. “The journal is currently in the public domain under Rule 41(1) of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Rules, 2002”. This mango type is distinguished by its light-yellow skin and unique fragrance. Indigenous people claim that because the mango is so light in weight (200 g - 250 g), it is easier to digest. It is high in antioxidants and contains vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, and copper. This mango contains more fibre and less sugar, making it suitable for diabetics and people with high blood pressure. The community and the government are aggressively promoting and increasing production of this aromatic mango. Because the mango's skin is so thin, preservation and transportation are major concerns. As with many agricultural crops, the correct temperature is critical to maintaining the light-yellow colouring, flavour, and ripening period. Unexpected rains, other than traditional mango showers (kalbaishakhi), can dramatically diminish mango size and weight. Storage facilities, processing units, and marketing will assist farmers increase their revenue year after year. There are certain authorities under GI Act who plays a pivotal role in granting the GI tag. They are as under follows;
