Jederi Namkatti Gets GI Tag
Why In News ?
- Recently, Jaderi Namkatti was granted GI tag by the Geographical Indications Registry in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
With reference to Jaderi Namkatti:
- Jaderi Namakatti are sticks made from clay which are white in colour, usually available in finger-like shape with a smooth texture.
- The application seeking tag for this product was filed by Jaderi Thiruman (Namakatti) Producers Society.
- Jaderi is a small village in Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu. There are about 120 families in Cheyyar Taluk whose main occupation has been making Namkatti for more than hundreds of years.
- Structure: Rich deposits of hydrous silicate minerals that form fine clay particles.
- In this the clay is processed and shaped into a finger-like structure.
- The production of Namakatti depends on climatic conditions, as it requires a lot of sunlight to dry.
- Manufacturing process: Rocks are placed in a circular pit and crushed.
Key facts about Geographical Indication:
- GI is an indicator used to identify goods with special characteristics originating from a certain geographical area.
- The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications of goods in India.
- It is also part of the World Trade Organization’s Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
- The decision was taken under Articles 1(2) and 10 of the Paris Convention and it also states that protection of industrial property and geographical indications are elements of intellectual property.
- This is mainly agricultural, natural or manufactured products (handicrafts and industrial goods).
- It is commonly used for agricultural products, foods, wines and spirit beverages, handicrafts, and industrial products.
- Registration of Geographical Indication is valid for a period of 10 years. It can be renewed from time to time for an additional period of 10 years.
- Once Geographical Indication status is granted, no other manufacturer can misuse its name to market similar products. It also provides convenience to the customers about the authenticity of that product.
Source – The Hindu
