Rasagola - Culture & GI Tags of Odisha

NILADRI Bije, the last day of the Ratha Jatra, is associated with the age-old invention of OdishaRasagola. Odisha Rasagola earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag on 29 July 2019.

- DR. ANITA SABAT

GI is a name or sign used on certain products, which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin (e.g., a village, town, district, or country). It is a type of Intellectual Property Right (IPR). As per the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), "geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin." To function as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. in addition, the qualities, characteristics or reputation of the product should be essentially due to the place of origin. Since the qualities depend on the geographical place of production, there is a clear link between the product and its original place of production.

A geographical indication right enables those who have the right to use the indication to prevent its use by a third party whose product does not conform to the applicable standards. For example, only the Rasagola made in Odisha and produced according to the standards set out in the geographical indication application can use the name- "Odisha Rasagola." Other Rasagola are not permitted to use the same name.

Once a product is registered as a GI, it earns a GI Certificate. "Registered Proprietors" and "Authorised Users" of GIs are eligible to use the GI logo and tagline. GI Registry, Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt of India, has been focusing on Gls. The tagline is- "Invaluable Treasures of Incredible India".

GI has generated great interest and enthusiasm, and many Odias are demanding "GI Tags" now. This has resulted from constant efforts, information sharing, and awareness since 2015 starting with the #RasagolaDibasa celebration on July 30, 2015.