Strengthening Local Economies - Socio- Economic Advantages Of GI Protection In Sikkim
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Category: General Law
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STRENGTHENING LOCAL ECONOMIES: SOCIO-
ECONOMIC ADVANTAGES OF GI PROTECTION IN
SIKKIM
Panila Theengh, Ph.D, Research Scholar, Dept. of Law, Sikkim University
ABSTRACT
Geographical Indications (GIs) are a crucial aspect of intellectual property rights, particularly in regions with rich cultural heritage and unique agricultural products. In India, the protection of GIs has gained significant attention, especially in states like Sikkim, where traditional knowledge, biodiversity, and unique agrarian practices are prevalent. Sikkim, a small Himalayan state in Northeast India, is known for its organic farming and diverse agro-climatic conditions, which produce some of the most distinctive and high-quality products in the country. The protection of these products under the GI regime not only preserves their uniqueness but also offers significant socio-economic benefits to the region.
This article explores the socio-economic benefits of GI protection in Sikkim, focusing on its impact on local communities, the economy, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It delves into the specific cases of Sikkim’s GI registered products, such as Sikkim Large Cardamom and Dalle Khursani, and discusses the broader implications of GI protection for the state’s development. Keywords: Geographical Indications, Intellectual Property Rights, Socioeconomic benefits, Sikkim
Introduction Geographical Indications (GIs) are signs used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics inherent to that location. These products often embody traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and natural resources unique to their place of origin. The protection of GIs prevents unauthorized use of the product's name and ensures that only those products genuinely originating from the specified region can be marketed under that name. A Geographical Indication (GI) of good is a category of an intellectual property that
identifies natural, agricultural or manufactured good as originating from a particular place, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristics of the good becomes essentially attributable to its geographical origin. 1 In India, GIs are protected under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The Act provides legal protection to GIs, helps in securing a premium price for these products, and prevents unauthorized use by third parties. The registration of Geographical indication will help: (i) to provide legal protection to the product by preventing unauthorized usage of the product by others; (ii) to promote economic development of the producers/manufacturers of the goods; (iii) to assign a form of collective monopoly rights to the producer either within or outside the relevant geographical area.
In short, GI registration provides a protection to the product from unethical producers selling their low quality and priced products in the market and exploiting the reputation of a GI.
The people of North-East India are also engaged in different kinds of vacation wearing, toy-making, painting and manufacturing of other goods which they have inherited from their forefathers. The artistic designs and specific materials used at particular places have added
1 Section 2 (e), The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
value to the products produced with reference to that particular area. The traditional knowledge is enriched with the indigenous resources experience. But till now most of the GIs are filed in the agriculture and other domains have very less representation. 2 The protection of GIs is particularly important in regions like Sikkim, where local products are deeply intertwined with the cultural and socio-economic fabric of the community. The Importance of GIs in Sikkim Sikkim, with its diverse agro-climatic conditions and rich biodiversity, is home to several unique products that have the potential to be recognized as GIs. The state’s commitment to organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices further enhances the quality and distinctiveness of its products.
GIs in Sikkim not only protect the uniqueness of these products but also contribute to the economic development of the region. 3 The protection of GIs in Sikkim is crucial for several reasons4:
1. Preservation of Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Heritage: Many of Sikkim’s
GI products originate from traditional knowledge and cultural practices handed down through generations. Safeguarding them under the GI regime helps preserve this heritage while ensuring that the economic benefits remain within the local community.
2. Economic Upliftment of Local Communities: Geographical Indications (GIs) can
substantially increase the market value of local products, enabling farmers and artisans to earn premium prices for their goods. This not only boosts their incomes but also contributes to greater economic stability and improved livelihoods within local communities.
3. Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Sikkim’s dedication to organic
farming aligns closely with the principles of GI protection, which prioritize traditional and sustainable methods. Granting GI status to these products supports the preservation
2PANKAJ CHOUDHURY, EXPLORING THE CHALLENGES AND POTENTIAL FOR GI IN
NORTHEASTINDIA: A PARADIGM SHIFT, TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND TRADITIONAL
CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS: NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES (National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam, 170) (2019).
3 Panila Theengh, The Protection of Geographical Indications in India: A case study of Sikkim (2020)
(Unpublished Ph.D thesis, Sikkim University).
4 Ibid.
of such practices, promoting both environmental conservation and long-term sustainable development
4. Enhancement of Market Access and Global Recognition: GI protection can expand
the market reach of Sikkim’s products at both national and international levels. Recognition as Geographical Indications can help these products command premium prices globally, thereby contributing to the state’s overall economic development. GI- Registered GI products in Sikkim: Two of the most prominent GI-registered products in Sikkim are Sikkim Large Cardamom and Dalle Khursani. For many rural families in Sikkim, large cardamom is not just a crop-it’s a lifeline. It plays a critical role in the state’s economy, especially in districts like Dzongu, Mangan, and Ravangla. The government and local cooperatives have taken proactive steps to support cardamom growers through training programs, organic certification, and access to better markets. The GI tag has further strengthened these initiatives by emphasizing traditional farming and promoting high-value branding.
5 These products exemplify the socio-economic benefits that GI protection can bring to the region. Sikkim Large Cardamom6 Sikkim’s large cardamom is a perennial cash crop grown beneath the forest cover on marginal lands and one of the first agricultural products from Sikkim to be registered as GI in the year 2015 applied by North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation Ltd (NERAMAC) which has been assigned the responsibility of registration and supervision of GI by North East Council, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in consultation with the Horticulture and Cash Crops Development Department, Government of Sikkim. Sikkim is by far the largest producer of large cardamoms, not just in India but globally. 5Sikkim’s GI-Tagged Large Cardamom: Grow Prosperity with the Queen of Spices, availableat:https://www. salamkisan.
com/news/sikkim-s-gi-tagged-large-cardamom-grow-prosperity-with-thequeen-of-spices (last visited on April 25, 2025).
6 Ibid.
As per the spice board data, the state produced 3310 metric tonnes (MT) of large cardamom, of the overall Indian production of 3918 MT in 2010-11, thereby accounting for 84.5 percent of the country’s production. 7Sikkim Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb) is one of the most important commercial crops in Sikkim, accounting for over 85% of India’s total production. The crop is cultivated using traditional methods, under the shade of forest trees, at altitudes ranging from 1000 to 2000 meters above sea level. The unique agro-climatic conditions of Sikkim, combined with traditional knowledge and sustainable farming practices, contribute to the superior quality of Sikkim Large Cardamom. The GI registration of Sikkim Large Cardamom has brought several socio-economic benefits to the state:
1. Economic Benefits: The GI protection has helped secure a premium price for Sikkim
Large Cardamom in both domestic and international markets. Farmers in Sikkim now have better bargaining power, leading to increased income and improved livelihoods. The enhanced market recognition has also opened up new export opportunities, contributing to the state's economic growth.
2. Social Benefits: The cultivation of Sikkim Large Cardamom involves a large number
of small and marginal farmers. The GI protection has empowered these farmers by giving them ownership and control over their product. This has led to increased social cohesion and a sense of pride among the farming communities.
3. Environmental Benefits: The traditional farming practices used in the cultivation of
Sikkim Large Cardamom are environmentally sustainable. The GI protection encourages the continuation of these practices, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources.
4. Cultural Benefits: Sikkim Large Cardamom is deeply intertwined with the cultural
heritage of the state. The GI protection helps preserve the traditional knowledge and cultural practices associated with its cultivation, ensuring that these are passed down to future generations. 7 B. Chempakam and S. Sindhu, Large Cardamom - Chemistry of Spices, Chp. 4, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kerala, India.
Dalle Khursani Dalle Khursani (Capsicum annum var. cerasiforme), also known as the Sikkim Cherry Pepper, is another product that has been granted GI status in Sikkim. Known for its intense pungency, bright red color, and high nutritional value. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, along with potassium, its Scoville Heat Units (SHU) range from 100,000 to 350,000, making it a soughtafter spice for both culinary and medicinal applications.In 2020, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, granted the GI tag to Dalle Chilly, a unique and highly pungent variety grown in Sikkim.8 The GI protection of Dalle Khursani has brought about several socio-economic benefits:
1. Economic Benefits: The GI registration of Dalle Khursani has significantly increased
its market value. Farmers can now sell their produce at a premium price, leading to higher income and improved livelihoods. The GI protection has also facilitated the export of Dalle Khursani to international markets, further enhancing its economic value. 2. Social Benefits: The cultivation of Dalle Khursani is primarily carried out by smallscale farmers in Sikkim. The GI protection has empowered these farmers by giving them ownership of their product and ensuring that they receive the benefits derived from its sale. This has led to increased social cohesion and a sense of pride among the farming communities.
3. Cultural Benefits: Dalle Khursani is an integral part of Sikkim’s culinary tradition.
The GI protection helps preserve this tradition and ensures that the cultural significance of Dalle Khursani is recognized and valued.
4. Environmental Benefits: The cultivation of Dalle Khursani in Sikkim is done using
organic farming practices. The GI protection encourages the continuation of these practices, contributing to environmental conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources. 8 APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands, 200 kg of Dried Chilly Exported, Boosting Farmer Incomes in Sikkim, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, 24 Mar. 2025, available at: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx (last visited on April 28, 2025).
The Role of Geographical Indications in Rural Development One of the most significant socio-economic benefits of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Sikkim is their role in promoting rural development. Sikkim is a predominantly rural state, where agriculture and traditional crafts are the main sources of livelihood for a large portion of the population. The introduction of GI protection has created opportunities for rural communities to enhance their economic status by leveraging the unique qualities of their products. Granting exclusive rights on GIs can translate to incentivizing and promoting local and rural development.
This is the strongest argument in support of GI protection which rests on the preposition that granting exclusive rights on GIs can motivate groups of regional producers to invest in the production of certain types of products that traditionally originate from the region. Notably, GIs are not individual, but rather collective rights, as the right to use a GI to identify products is granted to a group of producers as a whole. 9 Accordingly, GIs necessarily promote collaboration between the various members of the group, as local producers need to co-ordinate the process of GI registration collectively. As a part of this process, producers should also identify and agree on selected product standards for the GI products along with setting up ad hoc quality control authorities to certify and monitor the quality of the products in the marketplace.
Post-GI registration, GIs incentivize the same groups to continue to invest in the quality of the products when GI products become established in the marketplace as a symbol of product quality. In other words, GIs facilitate both creation and maintenance of social capital for an entire group, which in turn may also benefit the localities where these producers operate not only by directly benefiting GI producers, but also other economic operators in the GI-denominated area. 10 Ojha (2017) conducted a study on Geographical Indications and rural development; opportunities and economic impact of protection of fruit crops in India. The results of the study indicate that protected Geographical Indication products are said to contribute more for development of designated area or region or locality.
Compare to reference marketing producers GI product producers contribute standard quality products and can get more profit. 9 Irene Calboli, “Geographical indications of origin, economic development, and cultural heritage: Good match or mismatch? ” 11 The Indian Journal of Intellectual Property Law 12 (2020).
10 Supra
The advantage of GI recognition of Indian traditional fruit varieties could improve their demand and qualities. 11 Considering that products that can be protected by GI are usually produced in rural areas, GI protection provides income flows to these areas by creating employment opportunities. These kinds of products don’t require neither any advanced technological infrastructure, nor big investment for the marketing. Hence without undertaking big costs, local producers increase their income and create employment. 12 As GI products gain recognition and market value, there is a corresponding increase in demand for these products. This demand stimulates the local economy, leading to the establishment of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in the production, processing, and marketing of GI products.
These enterprises create jobs, particularly for women and youth, who are often involved in the production processes. For example, in the case of Sikkim Large Cardamom, the GI protection has led to an increase in production and export, which has generated additional income for farmers. The income generated from GI products allows farmers to reinvest in their farms, improve their living standards, and provide better education and healthcare for their families. Another important factor involves, Rural-urban migration which is a common issue in many developing regions, including Sikkim. The lack of employment opportunities in rural areas often forces young people to migrate to urban centers in search of better prospects. However, the protection of GIs can help reduce this trend by creating viable economic opportunities in rural areas.
By enhancing the value of local products and promoting rural industries, GIs provide an incentive for young people to stay in their communities and contribute to local development. This, in turn, helps maintain the social fabric of rural areas, preserving traditional ways of life and preventing the depopulation of villages. With the increase of production and more demand naturally there will be the need of more production for which more manning will be essential which will pave the way for more employment and 11 Megha Ojha, “ Geographical indications and rural development; opportunities and economic impact of protection of fruit crops in India” 4 International Research Journal of Human Resources and Social Sciences 11 (2017).
12 Bilge Dogana,Ummuhan Gokovali, “Geographical indications: the aspects of rural development and marketing through the traditional products” 62 Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences 761 – 765 ( 2012 ).
less rural emigration. 13 The global market is highly competitive, with numerous products vying for consumer attention. In this context, GIs provide a significant competitive advantage to local products by highlighting their unique qualities and association with a specific geographical origin. This differentiation allows GI products to stand out in the marketplace, attracting consumers who are willing to pay a premium for authenticity and quality. Also, GIs serve as a form of branding that conveys the authenticity and quality of a product. Consumers associate GI products with specific regions and expect these products to adhere to certain standards and characteristics. This association builds consumer trust, which is essential for long-term market success.
For instance, consumers of Sikkim Large Cardamom and Dalle Khursani trust that these products are produced using traditional methods in the specific geographical region of Sikkim. This trust is reinforced by the GI certification, which assures consumers of the product's origin and quality. As a result, GI products often command higher prices in the market, reflecting their added value. Geographical indications also open up new market opportunities for local products. In addition to traditional markets, GI products can access niche markets where consumers are specifically looking for authentic, high-quality products with a clear origin. This is particularly relevant in international markets, where there is growing demand for products with unique qualities and cultural significance. The recognition of Sikkim’s products as GIs has facilitated their entry into international markets.
For example, Sikkim Large Cardamom is exported to countries in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, where it is valued for its distinctive flavor and quality. Similarly, the recent export of Dalle Khursani to the Solomon Islands is expected to enhance Sikkim’s prominence on the global spice map, opening new avenues for international trade. With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Sikkim has the potential to emerge as a key player in the global spice industry. This successful transaction serves as a testament to the increasing global recognition of India’s organic agricultural products and its commitment to expanding agri- 13 Naresh Kumar Vats, “Geographical Indication-The factors of rural development and strengthening economy”
21 Journal of Intellectual Property Rights 347-354 (2016).
exports worldwide. 14 Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its agricultural practices and traditional crafts. Many of the products that qualify for GI protection in Sikkim are the result of centuries-old traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. The protection of these products as GIs plays a crucial role in preserving this cultural heritage. The cultivation of Sikkim Large Cardamom, for instance, involves traditional agricultural practices that have been refined over generations. These practices are not only important for maintaining the quality of the product but also for preserving the cultural identity of the communities involved. GI protection ensures that these traditional practices are recognized and valued, providing an incentive for their continuation.
Moreover, GI protection prevents the misappropriation or commercialization of traditional knowledge by outsiders. By securing legal rights to their products, local communities can prevent unauthorized use and ensure that the benefits of their knowledge are retained within the community. Further, Sikkim’s unique GI products also have the potential to promote cultural tourism. Tourists are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that allow them to connect with local cultures and traditions. GI products offer a tangible link to Sikkim's cultural heritage, attracting tourists interested in learning about the origins of these products and the traditions associated with them.
Increase in tourism activity due to recognized GI not only benefits to the producer but also creates income and employment opportunities to other sectors such as hotel services for accommodation, gift shops and restaurants. 15 For example, cultural tours that include visits to farms where Sikkim Large Cardamom or Dalle Khursani are grown, along with demonstrations of traditional processing methods, can enhance the tourist experience. This type of cultural tourism not only generates additional income for local communities but also raises awareness about the importance of preserving traditional practices. Lastly, Environmental sustainability is a key concern in Sikkim, where the fragile ecosystem is vulnerable to degradation. The protection of GIs is closely aligned with the
14 Supra note 6 at 6.
15 Supra note 10.
principles of environmental sustainability, as it encourages the use of traditional and sustainable agricultural practices that are well-suited to the local environment. Traditionally, environmental sustainability was not introduced as a core part of the legislation, except for a quick reminder of the need to meet the specification requirements aimed at protecting natural resources or improving the welfare of farm animals (European Union, 2012). The EU Commission “Proposal for a Regulation on European Union geographical indications for wine, spirit drinks and agricultural products, and quality schemes for agricultural products” (European Commission, 2022) suggests the willingness to increase the contribution of GIs to environmental preservation. 16 The cultivation of GI products like Sikkim Large Cardamom is inherently sustainable.
The crop is grown under the shade of forest trees, which helps conserve biodiversity and maintain soil health. The use of organic farming practices, which are common in Sikkim, further contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the reliance on chemical inputs. GI protection reinforces these sustainable practices by linking the quality and reputation of the product to its traditional production methods. This creates a strong incentive for farmers to continue using sustainable practices, as these are integral to maintaining the GI status of their products. Challenges in expanding GI Protection in Sikkim While the socio-economic benefits of GI protection in Sikkim are evident, there are several challenges that need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of GIs.
At the same time, there are significant opportunities for expanding GI protection to cover more products and regions within the state. In India, every state and union territories has owned registered GIs for their respective product/ products. However, there is greater disparity among different states in registering GIs. Some states are the proud recipient of multiple registered GIs where as other states are far lagging behind with just one or two registered GIs. For example, Karnataka has the highest
16 Silvia Falasco, Paola Caputo, Paola Garrone, “Can Geographical Indications promote environmental
sustainability in food supply chains? Insights from a systematic literature review” available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/ (last visited on April 29, 2025).
number of GI tagged products whereas Sikkim has only two although there are many potential products which can be registered as GIs in Sikkim. Further, the extensive registration process is also one of the major legal hurdles for the GIs in India. The process of registering a product as a GI requires extensive documentation and evidence to prove the product's origin and uniqueness. In Sikkim, where many traditional practices are based on oral traditions, providing the necessary documentation can be challenging. The primary social challenge is the lack of awareness about GI Laws. Despite the fact that the legislature of India has enacted the GI Act in the year 1999 but, still many rural producer and common artisan have no knowledge that their skilled goods or produce is worth for getting protection. They have no knowledge regarding filing and getting GI protection.
They even have less knowledge in case someone else is misusing and misleading their GI. They do not understand what remedy is available to them for curbing such misuse. Many farmers and artisans in Sikkim are not fully aware of the concept of GIs and the benefits of protecting their products under this regime. This lack of awareness can hinder the registration of new GIs and limit the potential impact of GI protection. Currently GI registry has received total 1044 GI applications for registration but it is seen that only 420 GIs are registered. The remaining are either withdrawn, pending, refused or abandoned. 17 While GI protection enhances the market value of products, there are challenges in accessing markets and commercializing these products effectively.
Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and lack of marketing expertise can hinder the commercialization of GI products. In order to achieve the sustainability of GI, the developing country like India need to have the financial and technical assistance to promote their product in international market. The primary problem in India is that the merchants take home the dragon’s portion of the economic or financial gains brought about by the GI as compare to producer who has the actual interest. 18 In Sikkim, there is a need for better marketing strategies, packaging, and distribution channels to fully capitalize on the benefits of GI protection. 17 India Official IP website, available at https://www. ipindia. gov. in/the-registration-process-gi.
htm (last visited on April29, 2025) 18 Aishwarya Chaturvedi “Is Geographical Indications Sufficient to Aid to the Indian Economy” Managing IP Blog p. 1 (May 2019) available at https://www. managingip. com/article/2a5brqcfb83rfpjt5b0g0/isgeographicalindications-sufficient-to-aid-to-the-indian-economy (last visited on April 29, 2025).
Without proper market development, the economic potential of GI products may not be fully realized. Another significant challenge is protecting GI products from infringement and unauthorized use. Effective enforcement mechanisms are needed to ensure that only genuine products can be marketed under the GI name. In Sikkim, there is a need for more coordinated efforts between government agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders to promote GI protection. This includes providing financial and technical support to farmers and artisans, conducting awareness campaigns, and ensuring that the necessary legal and institutional frameworks are in place. Opportunities for Expanding GI Protection Sikkim has a wealth of traditional products that have the potential to be recognized as GIs.
By conducting research and documentation efforts, these products can be identified and registered as GIs, expanding the scope of GI protection in the state. Advances in technology offer new opportunities for overcoming some of the challenges associated with GI protection. Digital tools can be used to document traditional knowledge, provide evidence for GI registration, and market GI products to a global audience. Collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and the private sector is essential for the success of GI protection. By strengthening these partnerships, Sikkim can develop more effective strategies for promoting and protecting its GI products. Sikkim has the potential to position itself as a hub for GI products, attracting investment and tourism.
By promoting its unique products and sustainable practices, Sikkim can enhance its reputation and create new economic opportunities for its people. Recommendations for Enhancing GI Protection in Sikkim To fully realize the socio-economic benefits of GI protection in Sikkim, several measures can be taken. (i) There is a need to conduct targeted awareness campaigns and educational programs to inform local communities about the benefits of GI protection and the process of registering products as GIs. This can empower farmers and artisans to take advantage of the GI regime
and secure better economic returns for their products. (ii) Efforts should be made to document the traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and historical significance of Sikkim’s unique products. This documentation can serve as the necessary proof of origin for GI registration and help preserve the cultural heritage associated with these products. (iii) To capitalize on the market potential of GI products, there is a need to develop better marketing strategies, packaging, and distribution channels. This includes promoting GI products in both domestic and international markets, creating brand awareness, and ensuring that these products reach a wider consumer base.
(iv) The government should play an active role in promoting GI protection by providing financial and technical support to farmers and artisans, ensuring that the necessary legal frameworks are in place, and coordinating efforts between various stakeholders. This includes establishing a national-level fund for fighting infringement, brand building, and promotional efforts of GI products. (v) Robust enforcement mechanisms should be established to protect GI products from infringement and misuse. This includes monitoring the use of GI names in the market, taking legal action against unauthorized users, and ensuring that the benefits of GI protection are preserved for the rightful owner. To solve the technical difficulties in monitoring the instances of infringement, introduction of strong GI mechanism is the need of an hour at domestic and international level.
It is necessary to alter the present Geographical Indications Act to incorporate stronger punitive measures for violators. 19 Conclusion The protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Sikkim offers significant socioeconomic benefits, including the preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural heritage, economic upliftment of local communities, promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and enhanced market access and global recognition. Sikkim’s GI-registered products, such as Sikkim Large Cardamom and Dalle Khursani, exemplify these benefits and demonstrate the
19 Roy Sanjib “Jural analysis of GI in Odissa” Shodhganga P. 229 (2020) available at
http://hdl.handle.net/10603/284236 (last visited on April 29, 2025).
potential of GI protection to contribute to the state’s development. However, to fully realize the potential of GI protection, several challenges need to be addressed, including the lack of awareness and education, documentation and proof of origin, market development, government support, and protection against infringement. By taking targeted measures to enhance GI protection in Sikkim, the state can unlock the full socioeconomic potential of its unique products and contribute to the preservation of its rich cultural heritage and biodiversity.
References:
1. Aishwarya Chaturvedi “Is Geographical Indications Sufficient to Aid to the Indian
Economy” Managing
IP
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2. APEDA Facilitates Export of GI-Tagged Dalle Chilly from Sikkim to the Solomon Islands,
200 kg of Dried Chilly Exported, Boosting Farmer Incomes in Sikkim, Ministry of Commerce
& Industry, 24 Mar. 2025, available at: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx (last visited on April 28, 2025).
3. B. Chempakam and S. Sindhu, Large Cardamom - Chemistry of Spices, Chp. 4, Indian
Institute of Spices Research, Kerala, India.
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development and marketing through the traditional products” 62 Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences 761 – 765 ( 2012 ). 5. India Official IP website, available at https://www.ipindia.gov.in/the-registration-processgi.htm (last visited on April29, 2025).
6. Irene Calboli, “Geographical indications of origin, economic development, and cultural
heritage: Good match or mismatch?” 11 The Indian Journal of Intellectual Property Law 12 (2020).
7. Megha Ojha, “ Geographical indications and rural development; opportunities and economic
impact of protection of fruit crops in India” 4 International Research Journal of Human Resources and Social Sciences 11 (2017).
8. Naresh Kumar Vats, “Geographical Indication-The factors of rural development and
strengthening economy” 21 Journal of Intellectual Property Rights 347-354 (2016).
9. PANKAJ CHOUDHURY, EXPLORING THE CHALLENGES AND POTENTIAL FOR
GI IN NORTHEASTINDIA: A PARADIGM SHIFT, TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND
TRADITIONAL CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS: NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY
PERSPECTIVES (National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam, 170) (2019).
10. Panila Theengh, The Protection of Geographical Indications in India: A case study of
Sikkim (2020) (Unpublished Ph.D thesis, Sikkim University).
11. Roy Sanjib “Jural analysis of GI in Odissa” Shodhganga P. 229 (2020) available at
http://hdl.handle.net/10603/284236 (last visited on April 29, 2025).
12. Section 2 (e), The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act,
1999.
13. Silvia Falasco, Paola Caputo, Paola Garrone, “Can Geographical Indications promote
environmental sustainability in food supply chains? Insights from a systematic literature review” available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/ (last visited on April 29, 2025).
14. Sikkim’s GI-Tagged Large Cardamom: Grow Prosperity with the Queen of Spices,
available at: https://www.salamkisan.com/news/sikkim-s-gi-tagged-large-cardamom-growprosperity-with-the-queen-of-spices (last visited on April 25, 2025).