List of GI Tags in India 2026: State-Wise List, Meaning, Full Form, Registration Process

GI Tags in India play a significant role in protecting traditional products, supporting local communities, and promoting regional identity. A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a legal marker that connects a product to a specific region and acknowledges the qualities, methods, or reputation linked to that place. For aspirants preparing for competitive exams, especially UPSC, understanding what is GI tag, the GI tag full form, who gives GI tag in India, and how to apply GI tag is essential.

Here, we have explained GI Tags in India 2026, their importance, the registration procedure, and the state-wise GI tags list approach. It also highlights new GI tags 2026 and the role of the GI Act, 199,9 in safeguarding local traditions. 

What is GI Tag?

A GI tag is a label given to products that originate from a specific geographical region and possess qualities or a reputation that are directly linked to that place. Understanding what is GI tag helps explain why certain products hold high cultural, agricultural, or commercial value. A GI tag confirms that the product follows traditional processes and maintains standards that are unique to that region.

GI tags in India ensure that producers receive recognition and consumers receive authentic goods. These tags also help in preventing misuse of product names and protect local artisans and farmers from unfair competition.

GI Tag Full Form

The full form of the GI tag is Geographical Indication tag. This form of intellectual property allows products with unique characteristics to stand out in national and international markets. The GI tag full form is important to remember for exam-based learning and helps in understanding the scope of GI protection.

Who Gives GI Tag in India?

A common query among students is who gives GI tag in India. The authority responsible for issuing GI Tags in India is the Geographical Indication Registry, which operates under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The authority ensures:

• Verification of product origin
• Compliance with standards
• Legal protection for registered producers

The registry maintains a structured database and provides certificates to producers and associations representing them.

GI Tags in India List 2026

India has over 650 registered Geographical Indication (GI) tags as of 2026, covering agricultural products, handicrafts, textiles, and foodstuffs across states, with Tamil Nadu leading the count. The table below lists notable recent and prominent GIs by state, drawn from comprehensive registries up to early 2026.​​

State Wise GI Tags List 2026

India boasts 603 registered GIs as of 2024, spanning agricultural goods, handicrafts, foodstuffs, and manufactures across states, with Tamil Nadu leading at over 50 tags. These protect unique regional products, fostering economic growth and cultural preservation amid ongoing registrations into 2026. The table below summarizes counts by state/UT.

First GI Tag in India

Darjeeling Tea from West Bengal received India’s inaugural Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2004-05, becoming the first product protected under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. This recognition safeguards its unique flavor, aroma, and reputation derived from the Darjeeling region’s specific terroir, altitude, and processing methods, preventing misuse by producers elsewhere. The Tea Board of India spearheaded the application, establishing a precedent for over 600 subsequent GIs that preserve cultural heritage and boost economic value for local artisans and farmers. Today, it symbolizes India’s commitment to TRIPS compliance and authentic regional specialties.

How to Apply GI Tag?

A major part of the learning is understanding how to apply GI tag. Below is the detailed, easy-to-read process:

Step 1: Filing the Application: 

• Submit in triplicate
• Use Form GI-1
• Include a statement of the case
• Provide an affidavit showing representation of producers

Step 2: Preliminary Scrutiny: 

• Registrar checks for errors
• Applicant corrects discrepancies
• Experts review claims

Step 3: Publication in GI Journal: 

• Accepted applications are published within three months

Step 4: Opposition Process: 

• Anyone can oppose within three months
• Counter-statements allowed
• Registrar conducts hearings

Step 5: Registration: 

• GI gets registered in the official journal
• Certificate issued in Form-02
• Date of filing becomes date of registration

Step 6: Validity and Renewal:

• Valid for ten years
• Renewal allowed on fee payment

Understanding how to apply GI tag helps producers safeguard their traditional goods and join the formal market network.

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GI Act, 1999 Framework and Purpose

The protection of GI Tags in India is regulated by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. This Act was enacted to comply with the TRIPS agreement under the World Trade Organization.

Objectives of the GI Act, 1999

• Prevent misuse of GI names
• Protect producers from unfair competition
• Promote export of GI goods
• Preserve cultural identity
• Ensure legally enforceable rights

Key Features

• Definitions of goods, producers, and authorized users
• Maintenance of a GI registry
• Registration under specific product classes
• Procedure for objections and amendments
• Higher protection for notified goods
• Validity period and renewal options
• Prohibition of assigning GI as trademark

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