The West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has commenced preparations to secure Geographical Indication (GI) tags for several traditional sweets of the state that currently lack such recognition. The initiative aims to promote these sweets at national and international levels, alongside plans to establish 'Misthi Hubs' (Sweet Hubs) for organized production and export.
Understanding GI Tags
A GI tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Geographical Indications are covered as a component of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. At the international level, GI is governed by the World Trade Organisation's (WTO) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
Application Process
According to party sources, the Bengal BJP will apply through the state government for GI tags for traditional sweets that do not yet have the recognition. The initiative will be undertaken in phases, based on information collected from the district level, expert opinions, and research reports.
Speaking in Delhi on Friday, BJP state president Shamik Bhattacharya said, "Bengal is known for its sweet mouth. There are many sweets whose popularity needs to be increased further. The state will appeal to the BJP government in this regard."
Initial List of Sweets
According to sources, the initial list includes Malda's famous Kansat and Cooch Behar's Mohan Bhog, with plans to start the first phase of the programme focusing on these two sweets. Also in the spotlight are Sada Bonde from Kamarpukur in Hooghly and Lal Dahi from Nabadwip. Party leadership stated that Bengal's regional history, culture, and economic potential are associated with all these sweets.
Misthi Hub Proposal
The BJP's plan is not limited to the GI tag alone. The party is also considering setting up 'Misthi Hubs' in the respective districts to create well-organized infrastructure for production, marketing, and export. According to the BJP leadership, the GI tag will give recognition to tradition, while the hub system will expand business opportunities.
Political Implications
Political observers noted that this initiative appears to be a concrete embodiment of the promise BJP made in the 2026 assembly elections to 'protect Bengali identity.' The party has adopted a strategy to reach out to the people of Bengal more deeply by bringing language, culture, and tradition to the centre of political discussions.
Party sources said a formal proposal will be sent to the state government. After that, the government will be responsible for selecting the sweets, preparing the necessary documents, and the application process. Meanwhile, the state BJP is also preparing to start communicating with big sweet traders, food researchers, and experts working on traditional sweets.
