It is great to see the interest and excitement of general public regarding Geographical Indications (GIs) now.
I recollect the time when many Odias considered even the discussion regarding GIs as a waste of time and effort, and rather chose to remain mute spectators while some of us were passionately championing Odisha Rasagola and other potential local products as GIs. (Some still do).
After the grant of the last 2 GIs- especially Odisha Rasagola GI, many became aware and producer groups started demanding GI for their own community's products.
Note- NOT ONE Odisha GI application was filed between 2011-2017.
Now, how many GI applications have been filed from year 2018 onwards?
While it gives immense pleasure to see many being "vocal for local" and "vocal for GI", the wrong information being shared is a matter of great concern.
This afternoon, it was quite perplexing to find many sharing that "Nayagarh Kanteimundi Brinjal" has earned the GI Tag!
When I checked, it was showing as "Examination" stage.
