Protection of handicrafts under the regime of geographical indications with reference to Karnataka: A critical analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this research paper is to present a comprehensive analysis of Geographical Indications (GI) in the context of India, with a particular emphasis on the protection of handicrafts in the state of Karnataka. It explores the origins of GIs, their international protection under the TRIPS Agreement, their economic value, and India’s domestic legislative framework through the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Karnataka, being one of the leading states with a diverse heritage of handicrafts, has several GI-recognized products such as Channapatna toys, Mysore silk, sandalwood carvings, and Mysore paintings. Through doctrinal analysis of statutes, case law, and international conventions, coupled with empirical findings from surveys of artisans, the paper evaluates the effectiveness of the GI regime. The study reveals that while GI recognition safeguards heritage and offers global branding, economic benefits remain uneven due to intermediaries, lack of enforcement, and artisans’ limited awareness. The paper concludes that strengthening awareness, enforcement mechanisms, and market linkages is essential for equitable benefit distribution.