The protection of geographical indications in India: a new perspective on the French and European experiences

The How and the Why of protecting the unique identity of local products in the age of globalization. 'It is decreed that no wine merchant can mix two wines together. Disregarding this law can entail a loss of wine and a ­fine', and with these words a certain king of France in 1351 gave birth to what we now know as geographical indications (GIs). From the aromatic Basmati rice to the rich taste of Darjeeling tea in India and from the sparkling white wine of Champagne to the blue cheese of Roquefort in France, all locale-specific products are protected by GIs. The book compares the case of India with that of France where GIs originated and investigates how India has successfully extended its GIs to handicrafts while France and Europe still remain con­fined to foodstuff. It is a significant study in light of the increased Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights and World Trade Organization regime. (Résumé d'auteur