The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 — back to Table of Contents
Section 11. Application for registration
Registration can only be sought collectively — by an association of persons or producers, or an organisation or authority established by law, representing the interests of the producers of the goods concerned. Individuals acting alone cannot apply. The application must be filed with the Registrar in the prescribed form, manner, and fee.
It must include a statement explaining how the indication designates the goods’ origin and links their quality, reputation, or characteristics to that geographical environment; the class of goods covered; a geographical map of the area concerned; details of whether the indication consists of words, figurative elements, or both; particulars of producers proposed for initial registration; and any other prescribed particulars. A single application may cover multiple classes of goods, with fees payable per class.
Applications must be filed at the Registry office with territorial jurisdiction over the area to which the indication relates (or, for foreign indications, the office covering the applicant’s Indian address for service). After examination, the Registrar may refuse, accept unconditionally, or accept subject to amendments, conditions, or limitations — recording reasons in writing for any refusal or conditional acceptance.
