Context: The Central Zoo Authority has allowed the Odisha government to carry out the planned transfer of a cheetah, African lion and Chimpanzee from Dubai Safari Park (DSP) to Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP), Bhubaneswar. The CZA has asked the wildlife wing of the State Forest and Environment Department to keep requisite housing facilities ready in accordance with its guideline.

News:                                                                                  

• The Nandankanan Zoological Park (NZP) is set to receive a variety of new animals, including ring-tailed lemurs, red-necked wallabies, Hamadryas baboons, African grey parrots, and blue-and-gold macaws from the Dubai Safari Park (DSP).
•  In return, the NZP will provide hippos, blackbucks, hog deer, gaurs, red junglefowl, and gharials to the DSP.
• The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) has directed the government to follow quarantine and health screening  guidelines, revisit the acquisition, housing, and breeding of color morphs, and adhere to COVID-19 protocols. The exchange of animals should be completed within one year.
• The NZP is known for its high daily footfalls and notable exhibits, such as white tigers and successful pangolin breeding.

• Central Zoo Authority

• The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) is a statutory body operating under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, established in 1992 through the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Chaired by the Environment Minister, it comprises 10 members and a member-secretary. The primary aim of the authority is to enhance and reinforce the national conservation efforts for diverse biodiversity.
• The CZA plays a crucial role in accrediting zoos and overseeing their operations nationwide. It formulates guidelines and regulations for the transfer of animals between zoos, both domestically and internationally.
• Additionally, the CZA is involved in coordinating and executing initiatives related to capacity building for zoo personnel, planned breeding programs, and ex-situ research.

Cheetah

• The cheetah has a significant historical presence in India, with evidence of a Neolithic cave painting depicting a "slender spotted feline being hunted" found in Chaturbunj Nala, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh.
• The name "cheetah" is derived from the Sanskrit term "Chitrak," meaning "the spotted one."
• The cheetah was believed to have vanished from the Indian landscape in 1947, facing brutal killings and hunting. The Indian government officially declared the cheetah extinct in 1952.
• Since the 1940s, the cheetah has faced extinction in 14 other countries, including Jordan, Iraq, Israel, Morocco, Syria, Oman, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Djibouti, Ghana, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

African and Asiatic lion

Nandankanan Zoological Park

• Nandankanan Zoological Park, situated near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is named "The Garden of Heaven."
• Unlike typical zoos, Nandankanan is uniquely positioned within a forest, providing a natural habitat for its wildlife.
• The park actively participates in the conservation breeding of White-backed vultures, being one of six contributing zoos.
• Noteworthy features of Nandankanan include being the first zoo globally to breed both White and Melanistic tigers.
• White Tigers, distinct due to a recessive gene, result from breeding two Bengal tigers carrying this gene.
• Melanistic Tigers, characterized by black stripes, are a rare genetic occurrence due to increased melanin pigment.
• Nandankanan is the exclusive conservation breeding center for Indian Pangolins worldwide.
• It holds the distinction of being the only Indian zoo to attain institutional membership in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
• Gharials successfully bred in captivity for the first time globally at Nandankanan in 1980.
• The park achieved a landmark by witnessing the birth of the endangered Ratel in captivity, a first in Indian zoos.
• Nandankanan boasts the second-largest heronry for Open Billed Storks in Odisha.

Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) on December 15, 2023 added one of the world’s most underrecognised health challenges, noma, to its official list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD).

Context: The World Health Organization (WHO) on December 15, 2023 added one of the world’s most underrecognised health challenges, noma, to its official list of neglected tropical diseases (NTD).

cent. It is also associated with extreme poverty, malnutrition and poor access to sanitation and oral hygiene. 

About Noma:

Also Known As: Cancrum oris or gangrenous stomatitis (World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day).

Etymology: The name "noma" is derived from the Greek word "nomē," meaning "to devour," reflecting the disease's ability to consume facial tissue and bones if not treated promptly.

Risk Factors:

Poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, weakened immune systems, infections, and extreme poverty are associated with Noma.

Severity:

A severe gangrenous disease affecting the mouth and face, with a high mortality rate of approximately 90 percent.

Demographics:

• Primarily affects children aged 2-6 years, prevalent in poor communities.
• While not contagious, Noma tends to strike when the body's defenses are compromised.

Onset and Causes:

• Begins with gum inflammation and is believed to be caused by bacteria present in the mouth.
• Can also manifest in immunocompromised adults due to conditions like HIV, leukemia, and other diseases.

Global Presence:

Prevalent in Africa, Asia and Asia-Pacific, the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe.

Treatment:

• Involves a prescribed course of widely available antibiotics.
• Provides guidance and support for practices to enhance oral hygiene.
• Includes the use of disinfectant mouthwash and nutritional supplements.

Context: The increase in tiger numbers in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar was facilitated by diminished human activity, including bans on mining.

In VTR, the status of tiger conservation has seen significant improvements:

Mining Restrictions: Strict measures, including a complete ban on sand and stone mining within VTR, along with rigorous restrictions on mining activities in its eco-sensitive zone, have been implemented. This has led to a notable increase in grassland cover.

Tiger Population Growth: The tiger population within the protected area has witnessed a substantial increase. In 2023, the number of tigers rose to 54, marking a significant growth from 31 in 2018 and 28 in 2014.

Recognition by NTCA: The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has recognized and acclaimed the Reserve for the commendable 75% rise in tiger numbers. Additionally, the conservation efforts have earned VTR a categorization of 'Very Good' by the NTCA.

Note: Bihar has set a goal to establish its second tiger reserve in the Kaimur district by the year 2024.

Valmiki Tiger Reserve in Bihar:

• Geographical Location: Positioned at the India-Nepal border in Bihar's West Champaran district.
• Biogeographic Zone: Situated in the Gangetic Plains biogeographic zone.
• Himalayan Terai Forests:  Marks the easternmost extent of the Himalayan Terai forests in India. Sole tiger reserve in Bihar.
• Constituent Areas: Comprises Valmiki National Park and Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Surrounding Features: Bordered by Nepal's Royal Chitwan National Park to the north. Flanked by the river Gandak on the western side.
• River Systems: Rivers Gandak, Pandai, Manor, Harha, Masan, and Bhapsa traverse various sections of the reserve.
• Forest Characteristics: Exhibits a blend of bhabar and terai tracts.
• Vegetation Types: Encompasses Moist mixed deciduous, Open-land vegetation, Sub-mountainous semi-evergreen formation, Freshwater  swamps, Riparian fringes, Alluvial grasslands, high hill savannah, and Wetlands.
• Floral Diversity: Notable flora includes Sal, rohini, sihor, teak, bamboo, semal, Mandar, shisham, Jamun, Gular, etc.
• Rich Fauna: Large predators like Tigers, Leopards, and Indian Wild Dogs. Presence of Leopard cat, fishing cat, Deer species (sambar, barking deer, hog deer), etc.

Context: In a significant milestone, more than 5 crore ABHA accounts have been created during the ongoing Ayushman Bhava campaign. In addition, a total of 4,44,92,564 Ayushman cards have been generated and 1,15,923 Ayushman Sabha organized.

About the campaign

• Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Goal:  Ayushman Bhava follows a collaborative, multi-ministerial approach. Aligned with the motto "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas," emphasizing inclusive healthcare access.
• Three Key Components of Ayushman Bhava:
  • Ayushman - Apke Dwar (AAD) 3.0: Enables eligible beneficiaries to create Ayushman cards, streamlining healthcare access.
  • Ayushman Melas at HWCs and CHCs: Weekly health melas and medical camps at Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) and Community Health Clinics (CHCs). Prioritize super-specialty healthcare services, screenings, tele-consultations, free medicines, and diagnostics.

    Ayushman Sabhas: Community-level assemblies led by Village Health and Sanitation Committee (VHSNC) or Ward Committee/Municipal Advisory Committee (MAS). Ensure comprehensive health coverage and optimal healthcare service delivery.

• Ayushman Gram Panchayats: Gram Panchayats achieving healthcare objectives attain Ayushman Gram Panchayat status. Encourages local participation and dedication.

Context: Indian scientists have indigenously developed organic-inorganic halide perovskite self-powered broadband photodetector with partial substitution of lead by magnesium which can be useful for solar energy generation.

News:

Introduction of Eco-Friendly Alternative:

• The research address issues with toxic lead in organic-inorganic halide perovskite (MAPbI3).
• It propose an eco-friendly alternative by substituting toxic lead (Pb2+) with non-toxic and abundant magnesium (Mg).

Photodetector Fabrication with Simplified Architecture:

• The researchers fabricate a photodetector with a simplified architecture (FTO/TiO2/Perovskite/Carbon).
• This differs from the traditional architecture (FTO/TiO2/Perovskite/HTL/Gold), eliminating the need for an expensive metal cathode (gold).
• The new configuration is economic and robust.

Significant Step Towards Lead Replacement:

• The innovative research represents a significant advancement in replacing toxic Pb2+ in perovskite optoelectronic devices.
• The demonstration of MAPb0.5Mg0.5Cl2I-based photodetectors highlights the potential of magnesium substitution.

Promoting Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Technologies:

• The study reinforces the commitment to developing eco-friendly and sustainable technologies.
• By replacing toxic lead with benign magnesium, the researchers offer a promising alternative for photodetectors and optoelectronic devices.

Paving the Way for a Greener Future:

• In the face of rising environmental concerns, the research contributes to a greener future in optoelectronics.
• The swap-out of toxic lead for magnesium aligns with the global drive for environmentally conscious technologies.

Photodetectors:

They are sensors that can convert the photon energy of light into electrical signal. They are absolutely necessary for various scientific implementations like fiber optic communication systems, process control, environmental sensing, safety and security, and also in defense-related applications.

Perovskite :

• Perovskite solar cells are cost-effective, lightweight, and exhibit higher efficiency compared to traditional silicon-based cells.
• Despite their advantages, perovskite solar cells encounter issues such as a decline in efficiency and energy output during the manufacturing process.
• Researchers have identified a specific aluminum oxide that minimizes the efficiency drop in perovskite solar cells during conditioning.
• Perovskite is recognized as a "miracle material" with transformative potential across various industries, especially in the field of renewable energy.
• Recent breakthroughs have led to the development of self-healing solar panels using perovskite.
• Combining perovskite with silicon in tandem cells has resulted in enhanced efficiency, showcasing its versatility and applicability in solar technologies.

Context: Natural anti-infective, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic products derived from a wide range of easily SOURCEd mushrooms and their bioactive molecules have the potential to combat covid, according to a new paper.

News:

Bioactive Ingredients and Immune System Boost:

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted increased research on bioactive compounds to enhance the immune system's response to SARS-CoV-2.

Focus on Herbal Sources and Mushrooms:

Scientists globally turned attention to bioactive compounds from herbal Sources and edible mushrooms due to their accessibility, high antioxidant activity, nutritional value, and minimal side effects.

Mushrooms in North-East India:

North-East India is home to diverse edible mushrooms, drawing interest for their potential health benefits.

Bioactive Properties of Mushrooms:

Mushrooms contain bioactive polysaccharides and compounds with immunomodulating, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

Advantages of Edible Mushrooms:

Edible mushrooms offer advantages such as being nutraceutical supplements with no side effects and acting as immunity boosters.

Mushroom

• Mushrooms, also referred to as toadstools, are the reproductive structures of fungi, characterized by fleshy and spore-bearing fruiting bodies.
• Typically found above ground, mushrooms grow on soil or their nutrient SOURCE.
• The term 'toadstool' is often used for fungi considered toxic, while 'mushroom' categorizes fungi deemed safe for consumption.
• Mushrooms lack chlorophyll, distinguishing them from plants, and they do not undergo photosynthesis.
• Instead of photosynthesis, mushrooms obtain nutrients either through the decomposition of organic matter or by forming symbiotic relationships with plants, especially through mycorrhizal fungi.

Nutritional Benefits of Mushrooms:

• Mushrooms offer nutritional advantages as they are low in calories and fat.
• Mushrooms are a good SOURCE of protein, fibre, and various essential vitamins and minerals.
• Essential nutrients include B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid) and minerals (selenium, potassium, copper).
• Mushrooms contain various beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances.
• These compounds contribute to potential health benefits.
• The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in mushrooms may aid in protecting against chronic diseases.
• Conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease may be mitigated by the consumption of mushrooms.
• Certain mushroom species, like shiitake mushrooms, are renowned for their potential health benefits.
• Some mushrooms have a history of use in traditional medicine for their potential medicinal properties.
• For instance, reishi mushrooms are believed to enhance the immune system and possess anti-inflammatory characteristics.
• Lion’s mane mushrooms have properties that may enhance brain function and support nerve regeneration.

Context: The Washington Post and human rights non-profit Amnesty International have alleged that the spyware instance known as Pegasus continues to be in use, on this occasion targeting journalists in India. Based on newfound data the two organisations have said the phones of founding editor of The Wire, Siddharth Varadarajan, and South Asia editor of the Organised Crime and Corruption Report Project (OCCRP) Anand Mangnale were infected with the spyware.

Pegasus:

• It is a form of malicious software, categorized as spyware, with the primary purpose of infiltrating devices without the user's knowledge to collect personal information.
• Developed by the Israeli company NSO Group, established in 2010, Pegasus was initially discovered in 2016, using spear-phishing techniques such as deceptive text messages or emails to trick users into clicking malicious links.
• Over time, NSO Group has enhanced Pegasus's capabilities, enabling more sophisticated attacks. Notably, Pegasus now employs "zero-click" attacks, which require no interaction from the phone's owner to succeed.
• Zero-click attacks often exploit "zero-day" vulnerabilities, referring to flaws or bugs in an operating system that the device manufacturer is unaware of and hasn't addressed, making them potent tools for infiltration.

Recent Cybersecurity Initiatives in India:

Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative (2018):

Launched in 2018 to raise awareness about cybercrime.

Aims to build capacity for safety measures among Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and frontline IT staff across government departments.

National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC - 2017):

Developed in 2017 to scan internet traffic and communication metadata for real-time detection of cyber threats.

Cyber Swachhta Kendra (2017):

Introduced in 2017, this platform enables internet users to clean their devices by removing viruses and malware.

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C):

Recently inaugurated by the government.

National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal:

Launched nationwide to facilitate the reporting of cybercrime incidents.

Computer Emergency Response Team - India (CERT-IN):

Nodal agency dealing with cybersecurity threats such as hacking and phishing.

Legislation:

Information Technology Act, 2000:

Key legislation addressing various aspects of cybersecurity.

Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019:

Legislation focused on safeguarding personal data.

International Mechanisms:

International Telecommunication Union (ITU):

• Specialized agency within the United Nations leading in standardization and development of telecommunications and cybersecurity issues.

Budapest Convention on Cybercrime:

• International treaty addressing Internet and computer crime.
• Aims to harmonize national laws, improve investigative techniques, and enhance global cooperation.
• Came into force on July 1, 2004.
• India is not a signatory to this convention.

Types of cyber attacks

Malware:  a contraction of malicious software, encompasses various types designed to harm computers, servers, or networks, including ransomware, spyware, worms, viruses, and Trojans.

Phishing : involves attempting to collect personal information through deceptive emails and websites, tricking individuals into divulging sensitive data.

Denial-of-Service (DoS) : attacks aim to render a machine or network inaccessible by flooding it with traffic or triggering a crash.

Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks: occur when attackers insert themselves into a two-party transaction, allowing them to intercept and steal data.

SQL Injection : targets servers that use Structured Query Language (SQL) to manage data, using malicious code to extract information from databases.

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) : involves injecting malicious code into a website, which runs in the user's browser upon visiting the site, attacking the user directly.

Social Engineering :relies on human interaction to deceive users into violating security procedures and revealing sensitive information.

Context: In a first but important step bringing relief to the families of eight former Indian Navy personnel on the death row in Qatar, the appellate court there commuted the death sentence Thursday. The commutation of the death sentence is the first legal win for New Delhi, almost a year-and-half after the detention and arrest of the former Indian Navy personnel in Qatar.

Background of the Case:

• The accused individuals, who were employed by Al Dahra in Doha, were arrested in Qatar in 2022, facing allegations of compromising sensitive information.
• Their employer, Dahra Global Technologies and Consultant Services, was associated with the production of advanced Italian-origin submarines known for their stealth capabilities.
• The specific charges against the eight Indian nationals have not been disclosed by Qatari authorities.
• Previous Legal Proceedings: The case underwent two trials in March and June of 2023. Despite being granted consular access on multiple occasions, both Indian and Qatari authorities have maintained a level of secrecy around the case, citing its sensitivity.
• The eight men had been working in their private capacity with Dahra Global to oversee the induction of Italian small stealth submarines U2I2. They were identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor Ragesh.
• Days after the death penalty verdict, which India called “deeply shocking”, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met the family members of the eight men and assured them that the government attached “the highest importance” to the case.

Diplomatic Ramifications of the Situation:

Potential Strain in India-Qatar Relations: The court decision has the potential to create tension between India and Qatar. Given the substantial Indian migrant population in Qatar, this case may impact economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Pressure on the Indian Government: With over seven lakh Indians in Qatar, there is a diplomatic urgency for the Indian government to take decisive action to safeguard the detainees. The contributions of Indian migrants in various sectors make their protection a priority.

Contributions and Reputation of Indian Expatriates: Indians in Qatar are recognized for their sincerity, hard work, technical expertise, and law-abiding nature. Their contributions are integral to the Qatari workforce and economy.

Economic Significance: Remittances from the Indian expatriate community in Qatar are substantial, estimated at around 750 million dollars annually. This financial flow holds economic importance for India.

First Major Crisis in Relations: This case marks the first significant crisis in the otherwise stable relationship between India and Qatar.

Previous High-Level Engagements: Both nations have previously participated in high-level meetings, with the Indian Prime Minister visiting Doha in 2016 and subsequent discussions with the Emir of Qatar.

Qatar's Role in India's Energy Sector: Qatar plays a vital role as a supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India. The country accounts for a substantial portion of India's LNG imports, further emphasizing the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.

In what Cases was India Involved with the ICJ?

• Kulbhushan Jadhav Case (India Vs Pakistan)
• Right of Passage over Indian Territory (Portugal v. India, culminated 1960).
• Appeal Relating to the Jurisdiction of the ICAO Council (India v. Pakistan, culminated 1972).
• Trial of Pakistani Prisoners of War (Pakistan v. India, culminated 1973).
• Aerial Incident of 10 August 1999 (Pakistan v. India, culminated 2000).
• Obligations concerning Negotiations relating to Cessation of the Nuclear Arms Race and to Nuclear Disarmament (Marshall Islands v. India, culminated 2016).

QATAR

• Qatar is a small peninsula situated in the Arabian Gulf, surrounded by water on three sides, including the Arabian Gulf to the north, east, and west.
• Qatar shares its sole land border with Saudi Arabia, making entry or exit by land possible only through its border with Saudi Arabia.
• The capital city of Qatar is Doha, positioned on the eastern coast, serving as the primary center for business, culture, and tourism.
• Qatar experiences a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, translating to generally hot and dry weather with high temperatures in summer and cooler temperatures in winter.
• The marine surroundings of Qatar boast rich marine life, featuring coral reefs and various fish species, providing opportunities for activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
• Qatar is home to man-made islands, such as The Pearl-Qatar and Lusail City, developed for residential, commercial, and recreational purposes, contributing to the country's urban landscape.
• Positioned strategically in the Middle East, Qatar serves as a significant transportation and trade hub, connecting air, sea, and land routes, facilitating international trade and travel.
• Qatar is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and hosts the headquarters of various international organizations, including the Arab League, actively participating in regional and international affairs.

Mayurbhanj’s red ant chutney receives GI tag.

The Chutney

• Made with - The chutney is made with read weaver ants by the tribal people of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district.
• Other name - It is also known by the name Similipal kai Chutney.
• Making - Red weaver ants are collected from the nests along with their eggs and cleaned.
• After that, the chutney is prepared by mixing and grinding salt, ginger, garlic and chillies.
• Characteristics - The hot chutney has a pungent and sour taste and is appetizing.
• The savoury chutney is popular in the region for its healing properties and also deemed important for nutritional security of the tribal people.
• Medicinal values - Consuming the species can help boost the immune system and prevent diseases.
• The tribal healers also prepare a medicinal oil in which they dip the ants along with pure mustard oil.
• After a month, this concoction is used as a body oil for babies and to cure rheumatism, gout, ringworm and other diseases by the tribes.

Red Weaver Ants

• Other name - Red weaver ants are also known as kai pimpudi.
• Found in - The red weaver ants are indigenous to Mayurbhanj and are found in abundance in the jungles of every block area of the district, including in the Similipal Tiger Reserve, throughout the year.
• Nests - The red weaver ants form colonies with multiple nests in trees.
• Each nest is made of leaves stitched together with the silk produced by their larvae.
• They mostly lodge in trees like mango, sal, jambu and jackfruit.
• The nests are strong enough against wind and impermeable to water.
• Kai’s nests are usually elliptical in shape and range in size from single small leaf folded and bound onto itself to large nest consisting of many leaves and measure over half a metre in length.
• Families - The Kai families consist of three categories of members, workers, major workers and queens.
• Workers and major workers are mostly orange coloured.
• Workers are 5-6 millimetres long, major workers are 8-10 mm long with strong legs and large mandibles and queens are 20-25 mm long and greenish brown coloured.
• Diet - They feed on small insects and other invertebrates like beetles, flies and hymenopterans.
• They do not sting but have a painful bite into which they can secrete irritant chemicals from their abdomens.
• Bio-control agents - They are also recognised as bio-control agents because they are aggressive and will prey on most arthropods entering their territory.
• They protect a variety of tropical crops against insect pests, acting as an alternative to chemical insecticides.
• Nutritional values - Red weaver ants are found to contain valuable proteins, calcium, zinc, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, copper, amino acids, among others.

A geographical indication (GI) is a designation applied to products originating from a specific geographical area, indicating that the qualities or reputation of the products are inherently linked to that particular origin.

In India, the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, of 1999 governs the registration and protection of GIs. These tags play a crucial role in promoting and safeguarding the unique products and traditional knowledge of various regions, contributing to rural development, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing the marketability of Indian products in the global market.

Article 22 (1) of Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) defines GIs as “indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographic origin”.

In many EU nations, GI is classified in two basic categories Protected GI (PGI) and Protected Destination of Origin (PDO). India only has the PGI category.

This certification is also extended to non-agricultural products, such as handicrafts based on human skills, materials and resources available in certain areas that make the product unique.GI is a powerful tool for protecting traditional knowledge, culture and can boost socio-economic development.

Benefits: It lets approved users stop others from using the indication if their product doesn't meet the standards. A GI tag confers the following rights to the registered proprietors:

• Legal protection against unauthorised use by others.
• Exclusive right to use the GI tag for the specified goods or products.
• Ability to prevent misuse, imitation, or misleading representations of the GI tag.
• Legal recourse against infringement or unfair competition.

Legal Framework and Governance:

• GI is governed under the Agreement on TRIPS at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
• The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 seeks to provide for the registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India.
• Paris Convention emphasises protecting industrial property and geographical indications in Articles 1(2) and 10.

Status of GI Tags Registration:

Compared to other nations, India lags in GI registration. Till December 2023, Intellectual Property India received just 1,167 applications, of which only 547 products have been registered, as per the GI Registry.

Germany leads in GI registrations, with 15,566 registered products, followed by China (7,247), as per 2020 data with the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Globally, wines and spirits comprise 51.8% of registered GIs, followed by agricultural products and foodstuffs at 29.9%.In India, handicraft (about 45%) and agriculture (about 30%) comprise the majority of the GI products.

Concerns Regarding the GI Tags in India:

Concerns with GI Act and Registration Process:The GI Act, 1999 framed over two decades ago, requires timely amendments to address current challenges.Registration forms and application processing times need simplification for easier compliance.

The current application acceptance ratio is only about 46% in India.Lack of suitable institutional development hampers effective implementation of GI protection mechanisms.Producers often struggle post-GI registration due to a lack of guidance and support.

Ambiguity in Producers' Definition:The lack of clarity in defining "producers" in the GI Act of 1999 leads to the involvement of intermediaries.Intermediaries benefit from GIs, diluting the intended advantages for genuine producers.

Disputes at the International Level:Disputes, especially regarding products like Darjeeling teaand Basmati riceindicate that GIs receive less attention compared to patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

Academic Attention:Limited academic focus on GIs is evident, with only seven publications from India.A recent surge in publications indicates growing academic interest, with 35 articles published in 2021.

European nations, such as Italy, Spain, and France, lead in GI-related academic publications.

GI Tag in India

The Geographical Indication Registry, a division of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Department of Industry Promotion and Internal Trade (DIPIT), is responsible for issuing GI tags, further safeguarding these unique products and their geographical origins. The GI tag holds significant importance for India, as it:

• Promotion and protection: It promotes and safeguards the unique products and traditional knowledge of various regions, contributing to rural development and empowerment.
• Marketability and competitiveness: It enhances the credibility/marketability and competitiveness of Indian products in the global market.
• Preservation of cultural heritage: It preserves the cultural heritage and traditional practices associated with the production of these products.
• Prevention of misappropriation: It prevents misappropriation and misuse of traditional knowledge by unauthorized parties.
• Sustainable practices and environmental conservation: It encourages sustainable production practices and environmental conservation in the designated regions.

GI Act of 1999

The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 is the main law in India that oversees the registration and protection of geographical indications. The Act’s key provisions include:

• The establishment of the Geographical Indications Registry, which is responsible for processing and registering GI applications.
• The criteria for registering a GI, include the association between the product and its geographical origin, and the reputation or quality attributable to that origin.
• The duration of protection is initially 10 years but can be renewed indefinitely.
• Provisions for enforcing GI rights, including civil and criminal penalties for infringement.
• Provisions for registering authorised users and associations of producers.

GI Tag as an IPR

Geographical Indications are recognized as a form of intellectual property rights under the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organization (WTO). As an IPR, GIs:

• Protect the collective rights of producers and communities associated with a particular product.
• Prevent the misuse or misappropriation of a product’s reputation or characteristics by unauthorized parties.
• Contribute to the preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.
• Promote fair trade practices and sustainable development in rural communities.

State Wise GI Tag Products in India

The GI Registry is located in Chennai processes and registers GI Applications. The tag was first given to Darjeeling Tea. However, GI tags aren’t only for popular products; they exist for hundreds of items across states, each recognizing a specific region and product. The various states' GI tags are as follows:

The first product in India to be accorded with GI tag was Darjeeling Tea in the year 2004-05.

Recently, over 17 products from Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and J&K have received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.