GEOGRAPHICAL

INDICATION: a
case study of
kashmir pashmina
(shawls)
WHAT IS GI:
1. A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on
products that have a specific geographical origin
and possess qualities or a reputation that are
due to that origin. In order to function as a GI, a
sign must identify a product as originating in a
given place.
2. Geographical indications are typically used for
agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit
drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.
A geographical indication right enables those who have the right to use the
indication to prevent its use by a third party whose product does not
conform to the applicable standards. For example, in the jurisdictions in
which the Darjeeling geographical indication is protected, producers of
Darjeeling tea can exclude use of the term “Darjeeling” for tea not grown in
their tea gardens or not produced according to the standards set out in the
code of practice for the geographical indication.

However, a protected geographical indication does not enable the holder to

prevent someone from making a product using the same techniques as those
set out in the standards for that indication. Protection for a geographical
indication is usually obtained by acquiring a right over the sign that
constitutes the indication.
Crafts of various forms play a significant role in the overall economic growth of the
Jammu and Kashmir state. According to officials figure the state annually exports
handicrafts worth Rs 785 crores. Most of the crafts are based on traditional material,
traditional knowledge and local skill. It makes good economic sense to protect them
legally under the GI Act. Among the craft items of Jammu and Kashmir, the first item
which has been registered as GI is Kashmir Pashmina.
Pashmina is the highest quality cashmere wool and many kinds of textiles products are
made from it, the most famous of them being Pashmina shawls. This wool has a
special luster due to its long fine fibers, which are as thin as 12 micros, comparing it to
human hair which is 200 microns. So, it is impressively soft, light and incomparable
warmth.