Context: 

The traditional Majuli masks in Assam were given a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Centre.

About Assam Majuli Mask

• Development: It developed in response to Neo-Vaishnavism, initiated by Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th century. 
• Usage: The handmade masks are traditionally used to depict characters in bhaonas, or theatrical performances with devotional messages under the neo-Vaishnavite tradition.
• Varieties: Made in different varieties and sizes as they are mainly divided into different categories: ‘Mukha bhaona’ (covers the face); ‘Lotokoi’ (extends to the chest) and, ‘Cho Mukha’ (head and body mask). 
• Materials used: Bamboo, clay, dung, cloth, cotton, wood, etc.
• Uniqueness: Masks depict mythological characters, deities, and animals, preserving Assamese culture
• Cultural Significance: Used in traditional Sattriya dance forms, rituals, and festivals.

About Majuli Manuscript Painting

• It is a form of painting — also originating in the 16th century — done on sanchi pat, or manuscripts made of the bark of the sanchi or agar tree, using homemade ink.
• Material used: It is done on sanchi pat, or manuscripts made of the bark of the sanchi or agar tree, using homemade ink.
• Earliest example: A rendering of the Adya Dasama of the Bhagwat Purana in Assamese by Srimanta Sankardev.
• Patronized:  By The Ahom kings. It continues to be practiced in every sattra in Majuli.

About Geographical indication Tag

• A 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. 
• Components of Intellectual Property Rights: Geographical Indications are covered as a component of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
• Usage: Geographical indications are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.
• First Product: The first product in India to be accorded with GI tag was Darjeeling tea in the year 2004-05.

Process Governing GI Tag:

• International Level: At the International level, GI is governed by the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). 
• National Level: In India, Geographical Indications registration is administered by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 which allowed India to join the WTO and sign the convention. 
• Applicability:  A GI registration is given to an area, not a trader, but once a product gets the registration, traders dealing in the product can apply for selling it with the GI logo.

News Source: The Indian Express