The Taleigao brinjal has reportedly got the GI tag. It is learnt that the Geographical Indications (GI) Registry has reportedly accepted Goa’s proposal for GI tag for five items unique to the State. The five items are Mancurad mango, Bebinca, Agassaim brinjal, Cashew (nuts and apples) and the seven-sided okra (saat-shiro bhende). It is understood that GI applications have also been filed for more items, namely Korgut rice and Manghilar mango. Goa State Council for Science and Technology has reportedly been designated for initiating required process and work as facilitator for GI registration of various Goan items and produce such as agriculture, handicrafts, food items and handloom. Earlier Goa's famed alcoholic beverage feni has been granted the GI tag which gives local producers exclusive brand protection rights. It is the country's first liquor product to be certified as a 'Heritage Drink,' receiving its GI accreditation in 2000. It may be recalled that Goa’s traditional festive sweet dish ‘Khaje’, spicy Harmal chilli and the Moira Banana have also obtained the GI tag. The GI tag provides legal protection thus preventing unauthorized use of the registered GIs by others. It promotes economic prosperity of producers of goods produced in a geographical territory. Karnataka has the highest number of GI tags with 47 products followed by Tamil Nadu which has 39 products with GI tag. A geographical indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. The protection of GI tags builds a global reputation for the products. People around the world notice various GI products from different regions and get motivated to visit those regions and use such products. Therefore, it helps in the growth of the tourism industry of that particular region as well. Incidentally Darjeeling tea was the first product in India to receive a GI designation in 2004“05. Since then, many additional products have been added to the list. The Goa government needs to aim to register more products of the state as Geographical Indications. The protection of geographical indications leads to the overall economic prosperity of the manufacturers and producers. Furthermore, the marketing and promotion of the products with the GI tags enhance the economic activities in that specific region, which in turn boosts the regional economic development.
