Law College Dehradun organizes an IPR session on “Geographical Indications: Tradition, Identity and Protection” on 10 October 2025. The session was addressed by Ms. Navya Raghunath Srivastav, specializing in Corporate and Commercial Law, who delivered an insightful discourse on the evolving significance of Geographical Indications (GIs) within the Indian and global legal framework.
The address commenced with an exposition on the concept of Geographical Indications as defined under Article 22 of the TRIPS Agreement, explaining that GIs identify goods whose quality, reputation, or other characteristics are essentially linked to their geographical origin. The discussion emphasized that GIs are not merely instruments of intellectual property protection, but also vital mechanisms for preserving traditional knowledge, protecting artisanal skill, and promoting community identity.
The speaker elaborated on the Indian legal framework under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, which ensures statutory protection for region-specific products. The Banarasi Saree, registered as a GI in 2009, was discussed as a remarkable example of how legal protection revitalized an industry once threatened by imitation. The judicial precedent in Tea Board of India v. ITC Ltd. (2011) was also examined, underscoring the judiciary’s proactive approach towards safeguarding genuine GIs against misappropriation. The session further reflected upon the broader economic and cultural impact of GI protection, noting its contribution to rural development, export growth, and heritage tourism.
In conclusion, the session underscored the indispensable role of academia in disseminating awareness about intellectual property rights as instruments of cultural preservation and inclusive development. The engaging discourse provided participants with valuable insights into how law can function as a tool to protect heritage, promote authenticity, and strengthen community resilience in a rapidly globalizing economy.
