Geographical Indication Registration Project in Uttar Pradesh

This document is a report detailing the Registration of 76 Geographical Indication (GI) Products in Uttar Pradesh, implemented by the Human Welfare Association in Varanasi. The project, with a total financial outlay of ₹16.13 million, received support from NABARD amounting to ₹14.52 million. It outlines the challenges faced in the registration process prior to the project, including a lack of awareness, a complicated registration process, and legal disputes over GI ownership. The report describes the strategies employed by NABARD to address these challenges, such as awareness campaigns and technical assistance. The impact of the project is significant, with 76 products facilitated for registration, benefiting approximately 4 million artisans, weavers, and farmers, of which 35% are women. The project has led to an increase in annual income for beneficiaries ranging from 40-200%, created job opportunities, preserved cultural practices, and enhanced market recognition and quality assurance for local products.