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Protecting Traditional Knowledge Through GI

The document discusses the Rasagola disputes between Odisha and West Bengal, emphasizing the role of Geographical Indication (GI) in protecting traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. It highlights the significance of GI in preventing unauthorized use, promoting economic benefits, and ensuring fair trade practices. The presentation concludes that collaboration among governments, organizations, and individuals is essential for preserving traditional knowledge for future generations.

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Akriti Shukla
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66 views12 pages

Protecting Traditional Knowledge Through GI

The document discusses the Rasagola disputes between Odisha and West Bengal, emphasizing the role of Geographical Indication (GI) in protecting traditional knowledge and cultural heritage. It highlights the significance of GI in preventing unauthorized use, promoting economic benefits, and ensuring fair trade practices. The presentation concludes that collaboration among governments, organizations, and individuals is essential for preserving traditional knowledge for future generations.

Uploaded by

Akriti Shukla
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Protecting Traditional

Knowledge Through GI:


Lessons from the Rasagola
Disputes

This presentation explores the


Rasagola disputes and highlights the
importance of Geographical Indication
(GI) in safeguarding traditional
knowledge and cultural heritage.

Name: Apurba Das


Enrolment Number: A03104424026
Course: LLM (IP)
INTRODUCTION: The Rasagola
Dispute
A Tale of Two Culinary Heritage
States at Stake

 The Rasagola dispute  This dispute highlighted


arose between the the need for legal
states of Odisha and frameworks to protect
West Bengal, each traditional knowledge
claiming ownership of and ensure fair
the traditional sweet. recognition of cultural
heritage.
What is Geographical Indication (GI)?

1. Origin and Quality


GI is a sign used on products with a specific geographical origin
and unique qualities attributed to that location.
2. Protected Designation
GI registration protects the origin and reputation of the product,
preventing others from using the same name for similar
products.
What is Traditional Knowledge?
 Traditional Knowledge (TK) refers to Indigenous cultural
expressions, skills, and practices passed down through
generations.
 It includes food, crafts, medicine, and agricultural practices
unique to a community or region.

• Role of Geographical Indications (GI) in


Protecting TK:
 GI serves as a legal tool to protect TK by recognizing a
product’s unique regional identity.
 It helps prevent unauthorized use and misappropriation
while promoting economic benefits for local communities.
The Importance of Protecting Traditional
Knowledge
Preserving Cultural Heritage
Traditional knowledge represents a community's cultural identity and heritage,
passed down through generations.
Economic Benefits
Protecting traditional knowledge can boost local economies by promoting unique
products and attracting tourism.
Promoting Fair Trade
GI registration helps ensure fair trade practices and prevents the exploitation of
traditional knowledge.
Rasagola: A Culinary
Dispute

• Odisha claims Rasagola


originated in the state, with a
distinct recipe and preparation
method.
• West Bengal also claims
Rasagola as its own, with a
slightly different recipe and
historical connections.
• The dispute escalated, leading to
legal battles and heated debates
over the authenticity of the
sweet.
Rasagola – A Cultural and Culinary
Heritage

 Origin of Rasagola:
Rasagola (or Rasgulla) is a popular Indian sweet made
from chhena (cottage cheese) and sugar syrup.
It has deep-rooted cultural and religious significance in
India, particularly in Odisha and West Bengal.
Odisha’s Claim:

• Rasagola has been offered


as part of the Niladri Bije
ritual at the Jagannath
Temple, Puri, for over 800
years.
• Historical texts like Dandi
Ramayana (15th Century)
mention a similar sweet,
reinforcing Odisha’s Claim.
• Odisha’s GI was registered
in 2019 as Odisha
Rasagola or Pahala
Rasagola.
West Bengal’s Claim:

• Rasgulla was commercially


popularized in the 19th
century by Nobin Chandra
Das, a famous confectioner
in Kolkata.
• Bengal’s version, known as
Bengal Rasogolla, has a
distinct texture and taste,
contributing to its fame.
• West Bengal’s GI was
registered in 2017 as
Bengal Rasogolla.
Comparative Analysis:
Odisha v West Bengal
Basis of Odisha Rasagola West Bengal
difference Rasogulla
Date of claim 12th Century 19th Century,
1860s
Historical The Rasagola is Nobin Chandra
Background used as an Das made
offering to Rasogulla in
Goddess Laxmi by Kolkata and later
Lord Jagannath in popularized it in
the temple. India.
Color Light Brown White

Texture Soft Spongy


Lessons Learned: Protecting Traditional
Knowledge Through GI

 Documentation
Thorough documentation of traditional knowledge and
cultural practices is vital.
 Community Involvement
Involving local communities in the GI registration
process ensures ownership and protection.
 Legal Support
Seek legal counsel and support from organizations
specializing in GI registration.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways

The Rasagola disputes illustrate the critical role


of GI in safeguarding traditional knowledge and
cultural heritage. Protecting this knowledge
fosters economic growth, cultural identity, and
fair-trade practices. Governments,
organizations, and individuals must collaborate
to ensure that traditional knowledge is
preserved and celebrated for future
generations.

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