GI TAGS IN GOA (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: The Goan caju (cashew kernel) recently secured a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, while Goa's requests for GI recognition for Bebinca, Malcorada mango, seven-ridge okra, Agassaim brinjal, Harmal chilli, and Khola chilli are currently pending.

• According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), a GI tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that is due to that origin.

Key Points

• The most famous example of GI-tagging in the world is, of course, Champagne, the sparkling wine from that particular district of France. 
• GI tags have for long been used globally as indicators or appellations of origin in food law.
• In 2018, there was a battle royale between Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg over which district would lay claim to be the real home of the Hapus (also called the Alphonso) mango.
• mangoes worth 30 billion annually, over 50 per cent of which are exported. The GI- tagging for the Alphonso mango has surely helped protect its exclusivity and distinctiveness.

Goan Cashew

• About:  Cashew, native to northeast Brazil in Latin America, was introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century, precisely in 1570.
• Initial Purpose in India: Upon its introduction on the Indian coasts, cashew was primarily recognized as a crop for afforestation and soil conservation.
• Prominence in Goa: In the state of Goa, cashew occupies the largest area among horticultural crops.