We will confirm eligibility, craft the specification and governance model, file the application, and set up enforcement and Authorized User onboarding with a clear, stage-wise fixed-fee plan.
Geographical Indication (GI) Protection
Protect Origin, Quality, and Reputation. Stop Misuse and Free-Riding.
What Is This Service
A Geographical Indication certifies that a product comes from a specific region and possesses qualities, reputation, or characteristics essentially attributable to that origin. Think tea, coffee, spices, textiles, crafts, wines, spirits, specialty foods. In India, GIs are registered under the GI of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Ownership typically rests with producer associations or statutory bodies, and individual producers can be recorded as Authorized Users. Registration lets you control who uses the name, how the specification is met, and how the mark appears on packaging and labels.
Why It Matters to You
Market differentiation: Signal authenticity and regional quality to win consumer trust and pricing power.
Collective leverage: Protect the entire community of producers with a single registration and governance framework.
Misuse prevention: Act against false origin claims, lookalike names, and deceptive packaging in domestic and export markets.
Rural and artisanal uplift: Convert cultural heritage and traditional know-how into sustainable income.
Export readiness: GI labeling and specifications support customs, distributors, and retailers in compliance-driven markets.
How Boudhik IP Helps
1) Eligibility & Specification Blueprint
We assess whether your product meets GI criteria and draft the product specification: geography, raw materials, production method, unique qualities, proof of origin, and control processes.
2) Stakeholder Structuring
We help set up or formalize the applicant body (association, board, cooperative), define membership rules, and align on roles for inspection, certification, and logo use.
3) Evidence & Documentation Pack
We compile historical records, maps, climate/soil data, production records, consumer recognition, and expert affidavits to demonstrate the link between quality and place.
4) Filing & Prosecution
We prepare and file the GI application in India, handle examination reports, oppositions, and hearings, and secure registration. Where relevant, we coordinate foreign protection or recognition routes.
5) Authorized User Registration
We design and run a streamlined process to onboard Authorized Users, including eligibility checks, declarations, and issuance of user certificates.
6) Control Plan & Logo Guidelines
We create a practical inspection and control plan and brand-use manual covering GI logo placement, labeling, QR/traceability options, and sanctions for non-compliance.
7) Enforcement & Market Monitoring
We run watch services, conduct marketplace and online sweeps, issue cease-and-desist notices, coordinate with enforcement agencies, and support customs interventions for export lanes.
8) Promotion & Commercialization Support
We advise on branding narratives, collective marketing, and distributor education so the GI story converts to shelf impact and better margins.
9) Renewal & Governance
We manage renewals, periodic updates to specifications, and governance refreshes so the GI stays compliant and credible over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The process usually takes 2–3 years, depending on the type of invention and examination speed. We can also help you file for expedited examination to reduce this timeline.
Yes – and you should. Filing a patent before public disclosure ensures your invention remains eligible for protection.
A patent filed in India protects you only in India. For international protection, we help you file under the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) or directly in other countries where you plan to operate.
Ready to protect your region’s reputation
Book a short GI strategy call with Boudhik IP.