When you hear of distinct products that truly capture the essence of India, you must be thinking about juicy Alphonso mangoes, the refreshing Darjeeling tea, or the elegantly woven Pashmina shawls. These are just a few of the many precious Indian products bearing the honorable Geographical Indication (GI) Tag, but there’s a catch. Indian Whisky wants a GI Tag too! What is a GI Tag and why does Indian Whisky want it too? Let’s understand it in detail.
What Is A GI Tag?
A Geographical Indication Tag is a mark or tag used on products that have a specific geographical origin. The product must possess the qualities of the region and a distinct reputation. GI Tags can be given to different products such as foods, wine and spirits, handicrafts, and agricultural produce. For a product to be given a GI Tag, it must identify its origin in a particular place. Moreover, its reputation, characteristics, and qualities must be due to its unique location.
As of 2024, India boasts 604 unique products with a registered geographical indication. Darjeeling Tea became the first Indian product with a GI in 2004-2005. Here are some of the other products that have a GI:
- Chanderi Sari (Madhya Pradesh)
- Solapuri Chaddar (Maharashtra)
- Kangra Tea (Himachal Pradesh)
- Muga Silk (Assam)
- Orissa Pattachitra (Orissa)
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Why Indian Whisky Requests For A GI Tag
The latest product to appeal for a GI Tag is the Indian Whisky. The Indian Malt Whisky Association has sought a GI Tag for Indian Single Malt Whisky and Pure Malt Whisky. Indian Single Malt is known for its distinct taste, aroma, and process that makes it stand out from the rest.
The foreign spirits of Tequila (Mexico) and Scotch (Scotland) already have a GI tag and are known for their origins and distinct taste.
If Indian Whisky gets a GI Tag, the whisky sold under its name would be recognized and manufactured in the territory of India. Such a registration would ensure that the provisions of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Indian Whisky, once it gets a GI Tag, will receive global recognition and authenticity. It will also prevent cheap knock-offs from being manufactured.
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Summing Up
As the world’s attention is turning towards Indian spirits, it will be interesting to see how and when Indian Whisky gets a GI Tag. Mahua liquor already has a GI Tag, so it is safe to assume that Indian Whisky might as well receive one. If it happens, the spirit will receive another layer of distinctiveness and recognition at a global level.
