The Intellectual Property India on September 16, 2026, issued the Draft Guidelines for Filing a Geographical Indication (GI) Application.
The draft guidelines provide a step-by-step framework for producer communities, associations and organisations to file Geographical Indication (GI) applications before the Geographical Indications Registry. They cover eligibility of applicants, identification and selection of GI names, establishment of geographical area and historical association, product specifications, distinctive characteristics, traditional production methods, supporting evidence, inspection and quality-control mechanisms, traceability and documentation.
The guidelines also explain the online filing process, prescribed forms and fees, preliminary examination, expert/consultative group review, examination and hearing, publication in the GI Journal, opposition and eventual registration. The guidelines emphasise that applicants must establish a genuine geographical link, reputation and distinctive qualities of the product, along with effective representation of the producer community and mechanisms to maintain GI standards.
