Odisha's Geographical Indications: 26 Products Registered as Government Enhances Global Promotion
Kendrapada: The state of Odisha currently has a total of 26 geographical indications (GI)-tagged products officially registered, highlighting the region's unique cultural and agricultural heritage. This information was confirmed by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, during a parliamentary response on Friday.
Holistic Promotion Strategy for GI Products
Minister Prasada emphasized that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) adopts a comprehensive approach to promoting geographical indications. The promotion efforts are conducted at national and international levels rather than on a state-specific or regional basis. This strategy ensures that all Indian GI products receive equal opportunities for global visibility.
Replying to a question posed by Member of Parliament Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, the minister detailed several initiatives undertaken by the government to enhance market access for Indian GI products worldwide. "Provisions for GI protection are being systematically incorporated into ongoing trade negotiations with various countries," stated Prasada.
International Showcasing and Digital Outreach
The government has implemented multiple measures to boost the international profile of Indian GI products:
- Showcasing GI products at prestigious international forums, including the Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge Diplomatic Conference
- Creating and distributing a comprehensive digital catalogue featuring 419 Indian GI products to Indian missions abroad
- Launching the Trade Connect e-Platform as an integrated digital interface to support exporters
The digital catalogue serves as a promotional tool for diplomatic missions to highlight India's diverse GI offerings during international engagements and trade discussions.
MSME Support Through International Cooperation Scheme
The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) implements the International Cooperation (IC) Scheme, which provides reimbursement-based financial assistance to MSMEs participating in international events and export-related activities. Funding under this scheme is not allocated according to state-wise quotas, but rather based on merit and application criteria.
Despite this non-state-specific allocation, Odisha has seen tangible benefits from the program. Over the past three years, four MSMEs from the state have received financial assistance totaling Rs 13,91,479 under the International Cooperation Scheme. This support has enabled these businesses to participate in global trade events and expand their export capabilities.
Digital Empowerment for Exporters
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has launched the innovative Trade Connect e-Platform as a comprehensive digital solution for Indian exporters, with particular focus on supporting MSMEs. This platform serves as an integrated interface connecting various stakeholders in the export ecosystem.
The Trade Connect e-Platform offers multiple functionalities:
- Connecting exporters with central ministries, Indian missions abroad, Export Promotion Councils, and Commodity Boards
- Providing access to trade agreements and country-specific market requirements
- Offering information on certification norms and compliance standards
- Facilitating buyer-seller matchmaking opportunities
- Highlighting global e-commerce opportunities for Indian businesses
"MSMEs can create detailed digital business profiles and access valuable capacity-building resources through the EXIM Paathshaala initiative," added Minister Prasada. This digital empowerment initiative aims to enhance MSME participation in global trade by providing essential tools and knowledge resources.
The combined efforts of GI promotion, MSME financial assistance, and digital trade platforms represent a multi-faceted approach to strengthening India's position in global markets while preserving and promoting the country's unique geographical indications.
