GI tag for Alphonso mangoes from Konkan region
Alphonso mangoes, the king of mangoes, from Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Palghar, Thane and Raigad districts of Maharashtra have finally got the Geographical Indication (GI) tag from the government.
A Geographical Indication (GI) is an indication used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
Alphonso, better known as ‘Hapus’ in Maharashtra, is in demand in domestic and international markets not only for its taste but also for its pleasant fragrance and vibrant colour. It has long been one of the world's most popular fruit and is exported to various countries including Japan, Korea and Europe. New markets such as USA and Australia have recently opened up.
Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu had recently launched the logo and tagline for the Geographical Indications (GI) of India and said that it will give the rightful share in the intellectual property to the artisan and the place of origin of the product.
He also emphasised that it’s an area of strength and optimism for India, whereby GI tag has given protection to a large number of hand-made and manufactured products, especially in the informal sector.
The first product to get a GI tag in India was the Darjeeling tea in 2004. There are a total of 325 products from India that carry the geographical indication tag.
