Geographical Indications - Women’s Participation As Authorized Users In Himachal Pradesh, India

Author: LawSphereX

Category: Intellectual Property

Published: 2026-08-23T19:59:34.437903+00:00

Updated: 2026-08-26T17:11:24.282+00:00

GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS: WOMEN’S

PARTICIPATION AS AUTHORIZED USERS IN HIMACHAL

PRADESH, INDIA

Mukul Rani Parajuli, Ph.D. IPR Scholar, Faculty of Legal Sciences, Shoolini University, Himachal Pradesh Dr. Nandan Sharma, Associate Dean and Associate Professor, Ph.D. Supervisor, Faculty of Legal Sciences, Shoolini University, Himachal Pradesh

ORCID ID: 0009-0003-0703-6073

ABSTRACT

This paper examines women’s participation as Authorized Users (AUs) of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Himachal Pradesh, the first Indian state to adopt a dedicated GI policy in 2004. Through doctrinal and thematic analysis of GI Registry data under Parts A and B, the study reveals that out of 806 AUs registered under Himachal GIs, 608 are women and 185 are men, a remarkable statistic in the Indian GI landscape. This research, based on Naila Kabeer’s Empowerment Theory and Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach, the paper explores how institutional mechanism have facilitated this largescale and gender inclusive participation. The findings support the hypothesis that Himachal Pradesh’s GI policy has significantly contributed to rural women’s economic empowerment. This case study offers broader policy implications for aligning GI regimes with inclusive developmental goals across India.

Keywords: Geographical Indication, Himachal Pradesh, Authorized users, Empowerment theory, Capability approach

1. Introduction

Geographical Indications (GIs) are distinct form of intellectual property that recognize and protect products originating from specific geographic regions, where qualities, reputation, or characteristics are intrinsically linked to their place of origin. Often rooted in traditional knowledge system and community-based practice, GIs serve as tool not only for legal protection but also for rural economic development and cultural preservation. India, a signatory to the TRIPS Agreement under the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographic Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act in 1999 to operationalize GI protection domestically.

1 While existing scholarship on GIs had examined themes such as governance in agricultural food systems2, traditional knowledge preservation, and economic development3, its engagement with gender particularly women’s participation in GI regimes remain limited. Recent literature has called for more gender responsive GI frameworks, underscoring the role of institutional support in enabling women’s active participation. Sovik’s analysis of the 2020 legal disputes over the GI status of ‘Rasgulla’ illustrates how community identity and inclusion are central to GI governance in India. Similarly, concerns surrounding biopiracy have highlighted the need for inclusive participation in benefit sharing mechanism under GI frameworks. 4 In context of Himachal Pradesh, previous studies have explored public awareness and the cultural heritage associated with specific GIs such as the Chamba Rumal.

5 However, there is a notable research gap regarding the genderdisaggregated analysis of GI Authorized Users. This paper addresses that gap by focusing on women’s participations as AUs under GI regime in Himachal Pradesh an area yet to receive substantive research. Himachal Pradesh present a unique case with several socio-economic indicators such as high female literacy (76%), near to balanced sex ration (972 females per 1000 males) and a relatively high rate of female workforce participation create a favorable environment for

1 Blakeney, Michael, Geographical indications and TRIPS, In Extending the protection of geographical

indications, pp. 7-34. Routledge, 2013. 2 Conneely, Ricky, and Marie Mahon, Protected geographical indications: Institutional roles in food systems governance and rural development." Geoforum 60 (2015): 14-21. 3 Nizam, Derya, and Mehmet Fatih Tatari. "Rural revitalization through territorial distinctiveness: The use of geographical indications in Turkey." Journal of Rural Studies 93 (2022): 144-154. 4 Roychoudhury, Souvik. "Geographical Indications and Challenges in India-A Study." Jus Corpus LJ 4 (2023): 183.; Kasturi Das, Prospect and Challenges of Geographical Indication in India, the Journal of World Intellectual Property 13(2): 148-201, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1796.2009.00363.x

5 Harikumar Pallathadaka,et.al, Geographical Indication and Traditional Wisdom: A Study with Special

Reference to Chamba Rumal in Himachal Pradesh, Integrated Journal for Research in Arts and Humanities 2(6), 67-70, November 2022, http://dx.doi.org/10.55544/ijrah.2.6.8

women’s engagement in rural economic activities. 6 Data from initiatives like MGNREGA, where 58% of workers in Himachal Pradesh are women (compared to the national average of 50%), further reinforces this trend. 7Moreover, mapping of women’s work across 640 Indian districts shows that rural women on Himachal Pradesh and the North-East have high rates of self-employment and cash earning than their counterparts in other states. 8 Despite these promising statistics, few studies have examined how GI policy framework intersect with these trends to facilitated women’s participation. Most literatures on GIs focuses on artisans’ livelihoods and general institutional mechanism, with insufficient attention to genderdisaggregated outcome or the category of Authorized users (AUs) under the GI Act.

This study is guided by the hypothesis that the implementation of the Himachal Pradesh GI Policy (2004), along with proactive institutional support has played a pivotal role in enabling the large-scale participation of women as AUs of GI registered goods. Accordingly, the paper aims to analyze the scale and nature of women’s participation as GI AUs in Himachal Pradesh, to examine the role of the state policy and institution such as Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment (HIMCOSTE) and Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Center (HPPIC) in facilitating this participation, and explore the broader socio-legal implications of women’s inclusion in GI regimes through the theoretical lenses of empowerment and capabilities.

The methodological framework combines doctrinal analysis of GI registry data (Parts A and B) with thematic analysis of institutional and policy documents. The theoretical foundation is provided by Naila Kabeer’s Empowerment Theory, which defines empowerment as the process through which individual gain the ability to make strategic life choices,9 and Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach, which emphasizes individual’s real freedoms to achieve value functioning’s. 10 Within this framework, GI registration is not merely a tool for economic inclusion but a potential enables of women’s agency, voice, and participation in cultural production and decision-making processes. By focusing of ten GI registered products from Himachal Pradesh and analyzing AU data up to 6 P. Guha, V. Gomes, A.

Janu, ‘ Women’s well-being and development in Himachal Pradesh: A district level analysis, July 2016, available at Women's well-being and development in Himachal Pradesh: A district level analysis 7 Mr S. L Balbir Kaushal & Balbir Singh, A study of Women Participation in MGNREGA in Himachal Pradesh, Februrary, (PDF) A Study of Women Participation in MGNREGA in Himachal Pradesh 8 Srivastava S, Kumar K, McDougal L, Upadhyay AK, Hay K, Singh A (2025) Mapping women’s work in India: An application of small area estimation. PLoS ONE 20(2): e0317783. https://doi. org/10. 1371/journal. pone. 0317783 9 Kabeer, Naila, Resources, Agency, Achievement: Reflections on the Measurement of Women’s Empowerment, Development and Change, 30 (3), 435-464.

10 Sen Amartya, Development as Freedom, Oxford University Press, 1999

2024,11 this paper contributes to academic discourse on intellectual property rights, rural development, and gender empowerment. It also provides policy-relevant insights on how targeted IP governance can support inclusive, equitable

2. Definition and Legal Framework of Authorized Users under Indian GI Law

Under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, an Authorized User (AU) refers to any individual or entity who produces, manufactures, processes, packages, trades in, or otherwise deals with good registered as a geographical Indication (GI) and who formally applies for registration in that capacity. Specifically, section

17 of the Act defines an Authorized User as a person claiming to be the producers of the

goods bearing the registered GI. 12 The term producers, as per the statutory definition, encompasses a broad category of individuals engaged at various stages of the value chain. This includes those involved in the cultivation and harvesting of agricultural goods, individual or entities engaged in processing or packaging of natural goods, Artisans and craftspeople exploiting the goods in the case of handicrafts, manufactures of industrial goods, and Traders and dealers associated with the commercial exploitation or distribution of the GI products. 13 To qualify for registration as an Authorized User, an applicant must submit a formal application accompanied by a statement of facts that assist the Registrar in verifying their status as a legitimate producer of the relevant GI goods. 14Upon submission, the application is advertised for public opposition.

15 In absence of any objection with the prescribed period, the application is accepted, and the applicant is registered as an Authorized User. Registration as an Authorized User confers upon the registrant the exclusive right to use the GI in relation to the goods for which the GI is registered. The right is, however, subject to any limitations or conditions prescribed under the Act or accompanying rules. In instance where multiple individual or entities are registered as Authorized Users of the same or similar GI, their rights are considered co-extensive but not monopolistic. Thus, no single AU can claim sole proprietary rights unless otherwise expressly provided. Registration as an AU is valid for a period of 10 years from the date of application, with the option for renewal upon 11 Geographical Indication Registry, Chennai, ipindia. gov. in/about-us-gi.

htm or Details | Geographical Indications | Intellectual Property India; Geographical Indication Registry database link All Applications | Geographical Indications | Intellectual Property India 12 Section 2 (b) definition of an Authorised users, Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act 1999

13 Section 2 (k) Producers

14 Section 17 (1), (2), (3)

15 Section 14 and section 16

expiry. 16The right to use a registered GI is non-transferable, it cannot be assigned, transmitted, licensed, pledged, or mortgaged. The only exception is upon the death of an Authorized Users, where the right devolves upon their legal successor, as per applicable succession laws. 17 From an evidentiary standpoint, the registration certificate issued under the seal of the GI Registry serves as Prima Facie evidence of validity. It is admissible in all courts and tribunals. 18All records related to GI registrations and Authorized Users are maintained in the Register of Geographical Indications, housed at the Head Office of the GI Registry, Chennai.

The Register is divided into two parts: Part A contains information regarding the registered GI, including name, class description and geographical territory and Part B records details of Authorized Users, including their name, address, description and date of application, which is also deemed to be the date of registrations. 19 This formalized structure ensures transparency and legal recognition of producers engaging with GIs, thereby facilitating both protection and enforcement of rights under India’s GI regime.

3. Case study on Himachal Pradesh GI

Himachal Pradesh hold the distinction of being the first Indian state to introduce a dedicated Geographical Indication (GI) Policy, aimed at protecting region-specific goods and fostering rural economic development. The policy was formally announced by the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, directing all the stakeholders including government and semi-government bodies, corporations, universities, boards, manufacturer, and association-to align with its framework for the registration and protection of GIs. Although concise in a two-page document, the policy outlines five core directives: 20 Firstly, the policy affirms that GIs in Himachal Pradesh shall be protected in accordance with national law, specifically the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

Secondly, The Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Center (HPPIC) establishes under the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (HIMCOSTE) and affiliated with the Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment

16 Section 18

17 Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act 1999

18 Section 22

19 Section 7

20 The Government of Himachal Pradesh issued policy and instruction for GI Protection in State under the aegis of the Department of Science & Technology via notification no STE F (1) 6/2004 dated 10th September 2004. GI Policy (Himachal Pradesh notification no. STE F (1) 6/2004 dated 10th September 2004), available at Department of Science & Technology

Council (TIFAC), Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, is designated as the nodal agency for GI-related activities. HPPIC is tasked with identifying potential GIs in consultation with stakeholders, engaging scientific institutions for data validation and authentication of product uniqueness and filing GI application on behalf of producers group or association with the GI Registry in Chennai. Thirdly, the policy specifies that HPPIC will bear the cost of GI registration filed through its office. However, the cost related to litigation, enforcement, or infringement shall be borne by the concerned association, manufacture or authorized user. Fourthly, the formation of a State-Level GI committee. A State-Level Committee for the Protection and Registration of GIs is constituted chaired by the Secretary of Science & technology, Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Members include: The Member Secretary (Executive Committee), HIMCOSTE, Heads of key department (Industries, Agriculture, Horticulture, Ayurveda, Food & Civil Supplies, Language, Art & Culture). Two expert nominees from relevant scientific institutions, Representative of manufacture of GI-applied goods and the principal Scientific Officer of HIMCOSTE (as Convener). Fifthly, the Committee is empowered to periodically review the GI policy, oversee implementation, and ensure protection of goods originating from Himachal Pradesh. It is also responsible for constituting inspection bodies to monitor and maintain quality standards of GI goods. The successful operationalization of the GI policy in Himachal Pradesh is largely attributed to the synergistic functioning of two key institutional actors such as HIMCOSTE and HPPIC.

HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment) established on January 3, 1986, HIMCOSTE serves as the apex body for the promotion of science, technology, and environment awareness in the state. Operating under eight key objectives, it mandates includes facilitating policy and programmatic interventions on science and technology, including intellectual property rights (IPR). As part of its GI related activities, HIMCOSTE has identified and listed several products for potential GI registration, including: Kinnauri Cap, Red Rice, Kalpa apple Wine, Angoori (Traditional Kinnauri’s Wine), Chilgoza (Pine Nuts), Chamba Chukh (Fermented Chilli Paste), Lahuali Aloo (potatoes), Kangri Dham (Kangri cuisine), Barot Rajama (Beans). 21 HPPIC has also established eight Intellectual

21 HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment)

Property Rights (IPR Cells) across various higher education institutions in the state to further technical facilitation, awareness, and research in IPR related areas. Facilities available includes capacity building workshop, seminars and conferences.22 This case study and analysis demonstrates how the combination of a progressive state policy, institutional infrastructure, and multi-stakeholder participation has resulted in large scale formalization and recognition of traditional products from Himachal Pradesh. The data used in the study, analyzed from Parts A and B of the GI Registry (Chennai), provides strong evidence of gender-inclusive participation and the emergence of a bottom- up model of rural empowerment through GIs.

4. Analysis of Himachal Pradesh GIs from Parts A and B of the GI registry,

Chennai Kullu Shawl, one of the most iconic handloom products from Himachal Pradesh is registered as Geographical Indication (GI) under Class 24 Textiles and Textile Goods. The product embodies the rich cultural heritage of the region, characterized by its distinctive geometric motific, vibrant color palette, and intricate weaving techniques practiced by local artisan. Its GI registration was completed in 2004, under Application no. 19 and 383, with the Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Centre (HPPIC), operating under the State Council for Science, Technology and Environment SCSTE, Kausmpti, Shimla, is the Registered proprietor. Kull Shawl was registered in 2004, the registration of Authorized Users (AU) under the Kullu Shawl did not commence up to 2011. Since then, application have been filed in 20 distinct phases, continuing up to 2021.

This staggered timeline highlights a gradual but sustained institutional effort to integrate weavers, cooperative, and entrepreneurs into the formal GI protection framework. The phase progression reveals an evolving awareness of GI rights among stakeholder, and an incremental approach to community mobilization. A critical examination of the authorized user’s data exposes a significant gender imbalance 109 male and 30 female authorized users. The ecosystem of stakeholders of authorized users for the Kullu Shawl GI reflects a well-diversified stakeholder base, encompassing: Individual artisan and weavers, Cooperative societies, small businesses, Institutional bodies. This diversity strengths the value chain resilience and facilitates multi modes of market access.

A breakdown of data, (Table 1) available at HIMCOSTE 22 Geographical Indication, Devbhoomi Himachal Pradesh brochure prepared by HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment) available at gi brochure. cdr .

below reveals that registered societies and small business constitute the core of GI participation, indication a bottom-up institutional structure where localized actors retain agency in production and trade. Details of Kullu Shawl the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 46, 58, 62, 82, 84, 125, 151, and 146 The date of filing of Application is in different phases 2011 (4 phases), 2012 (4 phases), 2013 (3 phases), 2014 (1 phase), 2015 (2 phases), 2016 (2 phases),

2018 (1 phase), 2021 (3 phases)

Registered proprietor Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Centre (HPPIC) Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household (1) application filed in 2011 and Maximum household (29) applications filed in 2021 Self-Help Groups (Filed in 2011 only) Society Limited (First and maximum (56) applications filed in 2011

M/S

(First application filed in 2011 and Maximum (12) application filed in 2012)

Total Authorized users Table 1: Type of Authorized users Kullu Shawl Chamba Rumal, a traditional embroidered handkerchief originating from the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh, hold a geographical Indication (GI) under class 24 Textiles and textile goods. Known for its intricate double-embroidery and depiction of Pahari Miniature art, the craft has deep historical and cultural roots, dating back to royal patronage during the 17th and 18th Centuries. The GI Application in registered in 2007 under Application number 70, with the Himachal Pradesh Information Center (HPPIC), operating under the State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (SCSTE), Kasumpti, Shimla, as the Registered Proprietor. Chamba Rumal has 34 authorized users registered between 2017 and 2020. The gender distribution is 32 women’s and 2 men.

The data highlights the feminized nature of productions rooted in household based artisanal practice and passed down through generational female lineages. While the GI was registered in 2007, the first phase of AU registration commenced only in 2017 after 10 years. This delay point to a gap in policy execution and outreach during the critical post registration phase, which likely limit the socio-economic benefits that could have accrued earlier to artisan communities. The women participation since 2017 reflects the gendered uptake indicating the possibilities for leveraging GI as a tool for rural women’s empowerment.

applications filed in 2017

M/S

(First application filed Maximum (1) application filed in 2017) Men’s participation Women’s Total Authorized users Table 2: Type of Authorized users of Chamba Rumal The Kinnauri Shawl, a celebrated textile product of Himachal Pradesh, is distinguished by its vibrant colors, intricate geometric patterns, and meticulous handwoven craftsmanship rooted in the cultural traditions of the Kinnaur region. It is registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) under class 24 textiles and Textiles Goods, signifying its regional specificity and artisanal value. The GI was officially registered in 2008 under Application Number 149, with dual Proprietorship of Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Centre (HPPIC) and Kinnaur Handloom Weaver’s Association, Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, India.

The dual custodianship reflects both state institutional support and local community engagement in the formal protection of the shawl’s identity. Although legal registration was achieved in 2008, the process of enrolling Authorized Users (AU) commenced only in 2011, under four distinct phases until 2019. This timeline points to the delay between legal recognition and grassroot implementation. Among 15 authorized users, the gender participation is 12 men’s and 3 women’s participation.

Industry (First Industry and Maximum Industry (1) applications filed in 2011

M/S

(First application filed Maximum (8) application filed in 2011) Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011 Society Limited (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011 Men’s participation Women’s Total Authorized users Table 3: Type of Authorized users of Kinnauri Shawl Kangra Tea is noted for its distinctive aroma, delicate flavor, and historic lineage tracing back to colonial-era plantation is registered as a Geographical Indication under class 30 tea. Cultivated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, the tea is valued both for its agroclimatic specificity and cultural heritage.

The product was granted GI status in 2012, under Application Number 25, and registered proprietor is the Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Centre (HPPIC), function under the State Council of Science, Technology and Environment (SCSTE), Kausmpti Shimla. Even though the GI registration occurred in 2012, the registration of Authorized Users (AUs) commenced earlier in 2011 and continued through 2023, spanning 24 phases. This extend and phased timeline reflects the deliberate institutionalization of GI practices, suggesting consistent engagement over a decade with Stakeholders across the value chain. Out of 41 authorized users, gender distribution reveals significant imbalance of 36 men and 3 women majorly due to the land ownership constraint and limited institutional access.

The diversified stakeholder as authorized users as list in table below suggest a mature GI landscape that integrates small holders, estate level cultivators and institutional actors. M/s firms dominates the AU profile underscoring the commercial orientation of the Kangra Tea value chain.

Details of Kangra Tea the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 46, 57, 84, and 85 The date of filing of Application is in different phases 2011 (4 phases) , 2015 (1 phase) and 2016 (3 phases) Registered proprietor Himachal Pradesh Patent Information Centre (HPPIC) Authorized users Total Numbers Tea estate (First Industry and Maximum Industry (1) application filed in 2011

M/S

(First application filed Maximum (2) application filed in 2011) Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011 University (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011 Men’s participation

indicating a community-driven approach to heritage protection. Despite the GI registration in 2012, the AU registration process began seven years later, with a single filing phase in July 2019 with six artisans who have been formally recognized as AUs under the GI framework. All six operate as individual household producers, emphasizing the intimate, family-based transmission of this highly specialized artistic tradition. This delay between registration and user certification reveals a disconnect between legal protection and grassroot operationalization. The presence of registered AUs even in small number signals the beginning of formal recognition of traditional practitioners. Among the six AUs, four are men and 2 are women.

Details of Kangra Painting the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 125 The date of filing of Application is in one phase in 2019 Registered proprietor Kangra Arts Promotion Society (KAPS), Mountain View Complex, Main Bazar, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamshala, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011

farmer-producer collective based in Shong village, Tehsil Sangla District Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh. Notably, this GI diverges from the usual state-controlled GI regime by being owned by a grassroot level producers association reflecting a community led governances’ model. After GI registration in 2012, the Authorized User registration began seven years later with application submitted in four phases from 2019 to 2021.

Details of Himachali Kala Zeera the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 125 and 147 The date of filing of Application is in (three phase) in 2019 and one phase in Registered proprietor: Kaka Zeera Utpadan Sangh, Shong, Tehsil Sangla District, Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh, India Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011 Men’s participation Women’s Total Authorized users Table 6: Type of Authorized users of Himachali Kala Zeera Himachali Chulli oil also known as apricot kernel oil, is a traditional edible and cosmeticgrade oil extracted from wild or cultivated apricot pits in the Kinnauri region of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its therapeutic qualities, natural pity, and artisanal extraction techniques. Chulli Oil deeply embedded in local subsistence economies and ethnobotanical heritage.

The product was granted Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2019 under class 31 Agricultural Product, through Application Number 468. The registered proprietor is M/s Kinnaur Chulli- Bhemi Oil Producer & Processor Society headquarter in Kinnaur, with official correspondence based in Shimla. This registration structure reflects a producer-led institution model, abeit with limited cooperative scaling at present. Uncharacteristically for most India GI’s authorized User (AU) registration began the same years as GI recognition, with four phases filing in 2019 and 2021. The early

operationalization of user certification suggests higher local awareness and institutional coordination compared to several other Himachali GIs that show significant lag between registration and implementation. Among the 11 registered AUs, the composition of authorized user 10 individual household-level producers and 1 commercial entity (M/S firm). There is no representation from self -Help groups, or cooperative or women’s collective, indication that production is largely fragmented household-based and unorganized operating outside structured value chains.

Details of Himachali Kinnauri Chulli Oil the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 125, 129 and 147 The date of filing of Application is in (three phase) in 2019 and one phase in Registered proprietor: M/s Kinnaur Chulli- Bhemi Oil Producers & Processor Society, Kinnaur, C/o Dyerton Cottage No-3 Below Shimla bypass, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2011

M/S

Men’s participation Women’s

the formal IP system. GI registration was secured in 2021, the formal process for authorized users began in August 2023, two years post-registration. This single-phase registration yielded only one authorized user- a male artisan operating independently from his household unit. The solitary registration, while modest is symbolically significant. It marks the activation of the Gi’s Legal framework, thus formally recognizing the artisan as the initial certified producers of Chamba Chappal within the national IP regime. Details of Chamba Chappal the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 182 The date of filing of Application is in one phase in 2023 Registered proprietor: Ambedkar Mission Society Chamba, Ambedkar Bhawan, Chamba Himachal Pradesh, India.

Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2023 Men’s participation Women’s Total Authorized users Table 8: Type of Authorized users of Kinnauri Shawl The Lahauli Knitted Sock and Gloves The Lahauli Knitted Socks and Gloves, a traditional wool-based winter wear product, stands as a pioneering example of gender-inclusive and community driven Geographical indication (GI) implementation in Himachal Pradesh Renowned from their durability, insulation and intricate craftsmanship, these socks and gloves are hand-knitted using indigenous wool and techniques unique to the Lahaul and Spiti region. This product was officially registered as a GI under Class 25-Lothing (specially covering socks and gloves) in 2021, with Application number 647.

The registered proprietor is the Save Lahaul Spiti Society, a grassroot organization based in Keylong District Lahaul & spiti, Hiamchal Pradesh. The institutional backing of a local community organization, rather than a government body reflects a bottom-up ownership model, reinforcing the role of civil society

is sustaining traditional livelihood through formal intellectual property frameworks. Although GI registration was secured in 2021, authorized users (AU) registration began and scaled up in 2023, with remarkable speed and inclusivity. Over nine phases over April 2023 to September 2023. The multi-phased registration process culminated in the certification of total of 535 authorized users under any single GI product in Himachal Pradesh, making this a landmark case for women-led economic empowerment under GI framework. Details of Lahauli Knitted Socks and Gloves the Registered GI’s (Goods) The details are provided under Journal Number 177, 181, 182 The date of filing of Application is in one phase in 2023 Registered proprietor: Save Lahaul Spiti Society, Keylong, District Lahaul & Spiti Himachal Pradesh, India.

Authorized users Total Numbers Household (First household and Maximum household (1) applications filed in 2023 Men’s participation - Women’s Total Authorized users Table 9: Type of Authorized users of Lahauli Knitted Socks and Gloves As per the data there are two trends in Himachal Pradesh GI. Firstly, the traditional craft- based GIs (Chamba Rumal, Lahauli Socks, kala Zeera) are still dominated by household and individuals with greater informal female participation but less formal ownership. Secondly, Commercialised and high -value GIs (Kully Shawl, Kangra tea) shows greater institutional participation especially by societies, companies and industries but with lower gender equity and fewer individual producers formally recognised.

Kangra Tea Kangra Painting Himachali Kala Zeera 23 Himachali Kinnauri Chulli Oil Chamba Chappal none Lahauli Knitted Scoks and Gloves none Total Table 10: Himachal Pradesh authorised users’ participation

multidimensional understanding of empowerment, encompassing not just economic inclusion, but also social, institutional, and cultural transformation. Kabeer conceptualize empowerment through three interlinked dimensions: resources, agency and achievements. The act of women registering as Authorised users reflects a strategic life choice that involves navigating legal systems, asserting agency in public economic space, and gaining formal recognition over traditional knowledge and practices. GI participation, therefore, represents more than compliance- it is a conscious empowerment act. Sen’s capability Approach emphasize the real freedoms that individual has to do and be what they value.

GI participation enables women to: engaged in economic decision-making, access legal ownership over traditional products, preserve cultural identity and enter markets with greater legitimacy and bargaining power. These enhanced capabilities contribute to more inclusive and resilient rural development model. The Himachal Pradesh policy 2004 A pioneering State-level initiatives, acts as the bed-rock for inclusive GI registration. The

institutional Mechanism HIMCOSTE promotes science, technology and environment with a role in identifying and documenting traditional knowledge and HPPIC function as the nodal agency for IPR registration, creating a bridge between traditional producers and formal legal systems. These institutions facilitated low-cost and accessible GI registration, created awareness through workshops and local engagement, reduced procedural complexity for marginalised group, particularly rural women. Gender-Disaggregated Participation The study reveals that 617 out of 813 AUs (76%) are women, a striking reversal of traditional gender disparities in IP governance. Lahauli Knitted Socks & Gloves – 535 women (100% female participation) and Chamba Rumal 32 women vs. 2 men (94% female) GIs with Male- Dominance in Kullku Shawl -109 men vs. 39 women and Kangra tea- 36 men vs 3 women.

This demonstrates household-based and community -rooted crafts are more gender inclusive and commercialized or industrial GIs remain male dominated, showing systemic barriers.

Capability Expansion and empowerment outcome Women participation in GI reflects (Resource Access: Legal rights over traditional products, agency: women’s ability to enter markets, manage micro enterprises and form collectives and achievements (economic independence, cultural validation and enhanced bargaining power). Though this lens, the GI system becomes a vehicle of capability enhancement, not just an IPR tool. Types of Authorised users High Individuals and house hold participation in Lahuali Knitted Socks & Gloves has 535 authorised users from households, the highest individual’s representation, suggesting a deeply community-rooted craft. Chamba Rumal and Himachali Kala Zeera also show strong household-level participation (33-23) respectively. Therefore, this data suggests that some crafts, GIs are sustained by individual artisan/ farmers not institutions.

High institutional participation in Kullu Shawl. It involves widest variety of institutional types: Societies (57), M. s 37, Insutry 24, Handloom Weavers (4), HP & State (2), SHGs (4) and 1 Weavers Association. It reflects a robust value chain, encompassing collectives, business and government actors and suggest formalisation of market linkages and visibility. GI goods chamba Rumal (household based) are women -dominated, while M/S and industrial entities (Kinnauri shawl, kangra lead tend to be male dominated. Kullu Shawl and Kangra Tea have minimal state involvement (2 and 1 AU respectively). Only Kangra Tea shows representation from tea estate, university and tea industry-hinting at formal sector linkages. Other GIs lack support from research, Universities, or state -led marketing bodies, indicating under-utilized institutional support potential. Chamba Chappal shows only

1 household authorised user indication low adoption or outreach

Therefore, higher participation in households comes from Lahauli Socks, Chamba Rumal, kala Zeera, Kullu Shawl; SHG only seen in Kullu Shawl, Societies Ltd. Kullu Shawls and Kinnauri shawl, M/s Business in Kangra Tea, kullu shawl and Kinnauri Shawl, Industry is present only in Kully Shawl, Handloom Weavers only in Kullu Shawl, HP/ State support (Minimal only in Kullu Shawl), Weaver Association only in kullu shawl and University only in Kangra Tea along with estates and industry.

5. Conclusion

This case study had global relevance demonstrate how state policy alignment with inclusive development goals can operationalize gender equity in IP regimes and offers a model for other India states and Global south context seeking to link GI law with sustainable and inclusive development. Grounded in the twin lenses of empowerment and capability, this research validates the hypothesis that Himachal Pradesh GI Policy has significantly enabled genderinclusive rural economic empowered. It bridges the gap between IPR Policy and social justice, offering both empirical evidence and policy pathways for transformative, inclusive governance. The paper recommends to strengthen women participation to enter formal GI ownership spaces.

Incentivize universities, State departments, and NGOs to support lesserknown GIs like Chulli Oil, Chamba Chappal and Promote collective registration for householdbased producers, especially in crafts like Rumal, Socks, and kala Zeera and further recommends HIMCOSTE to initiate and empirical research project on GIs of Himachal Pradesh.

References

1. Blakeney, Michael, Geographical indications and TRIPS, In Extending the protection

of geographical indications, pp. 7-34. Routledge, 2013.

2. Conneely, Ricky, and Marie Mahon, Protected geographical indications: Institutional

roles in food systems governance and rural development." Geoforum 60 (2015): 14-21.

3. Nizam, Derya, and Mehmet Fatih Tatari. "Rural revitalization through territorial

distinctiveness: The use of geographical indications in Turkey." Journal of Rural Studies 93 (2022): 144-154.

4. Roychoudhury, Souvik. "Geographical Indications and Challenges in India-A

Study." Jus Corpus LJ 4 (2023): 183.; Kasturi Das, Prospect and Challenges of Geographical Indication in India, the Journal of World Intellectual Property 13(2): 148- 201, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747-1796.2009.00363.x

5. Harikumar Pallathadaka,et.al, Geographical Indication and Traditional Wisdom: A

Study with Special Reference to Chamba Rumal in Himachal Pradesh, Integrated Journal for Research in Arts and Humanities 2(6), 67-70, November 2022, http://dx.doi.org/10.55544/ijrah.2.6.8

6. P.Guha, V.Gomes, A. Janu, ‘ Women’s well-being and development in Himachal

Pradesh: A district level analysis, July 2016, available at Women's well-being and development in Himachal Pradesh: A district level analysis

7. Mr S.L Balbir Kaushal & Balbir Singh, A study of Women Participation in MGNREGA

in Himachal Pradesh, Februrary, (PDF) A Study of Women Participation in MGNREGA in Himachal Pradesh

8. Srivastava S, Kumar K, McDougal L, Upadhyay AK, Hay K, Singh A (2025) Mapping

women’s work in India: An application of small area estimation. PLoS ONE 20(2): e0317783. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0317783

9. Kabeer, Naila, Resources, Agency, Achievement: Reflections on the Measurement of

Women’s Empowerment, Development and Change, 30 (3), 435-464.

10. Sen Amartya, Development as Freedom, Oxford University Press, 1999

11. Geographical Indication Registry, Chennai, ipindia.gov.in/about-us-gi.htm or Details |

Geographical Indications | Intellectual Property India; Geographical Indication Registry database link All Applications | Geographical Indications | Intellectual Property India

12. Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act 1999

13. The Government of Himachal Pradesh issued policy and instruction for GI Protection

in State under the aegis of the Department of Science & Technology via notification no STE F (1) 6/2004 dated 10th September 2004. GI Policy (Himachal Pradesh notification no. STE F (1) 6/2004 dated 10th September 2004), available at Department of Science & Technology

14. HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment)

available at HIMCOSTE

15. Geographical Indication, Devbhoomi Himachal Pradesh brochure prepared by

HIMCOSTE (Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology and Environment) available at gi brochure.cdr .