Patna: Bihar now has the highest number of Geographical Indication (GI) authorised users in India, surpassing Maharashtra by 295 registrations, according to official figures. The state records 2,059 authorised users, with a significant 83% linked to initiatives promoted by the Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, underscoring the role of institutional efforts in protecting traditional products and crafts.
Maharashtra follows with 1,764 authorised users, placing Bihar at the national forefront of GI engagement. The GI system provides legal recognition and protection to region-specific products, helping producers secure market value and intellectual property rights.
Within Bihar’s total registrations, 1,710 users are associated with GI products facilitated by the university, while 349 relate to other regional goods. Magahi paan accounts for the largest share with 1,001 authorised users, reflecting structured awareness among cultivators and traders. Other prominent GI products include Katarni rice (358 users), Makhana (229), Bhagalpur silk (223), Jardalu mango (92), and Shahi litchi (27). Traditional crafts such as Madhubani painting (51), Khatwa work (19), and Sujni embroidery (18) also contribute to the state’s GI portfolio.
University officials described the milestone as evidence of coordinated efforts between farmers, artisans, and academic institutions. GI registration, they noted, offers a pathway to premium pricing and broader market access, both domestically and internationally. Supporters of the system argue that it helps preserve cultural heritage while improving rural incomes.
Dr D.R. Singh, vice chancellor of the agricultural university, said the achievement represented “the collective efforts of farmers, artisans, and institutional support.” He added that the university’s contribution reflected a commitment to scientific guidance and awareness programmes. The next phase, he said, would focus on quality enhancement and export opportunities.
Dr Anil Kumar Singh, director of research and GI nodal officer, highlighted the importance of traceability and branding. “This historic achievement is the result of sustained scientific support and strategic awareness campaigns,” he said. “Our priority now is to strengthen market linkages so that the economic benefits reach producers.”
Officials at the university noted that Bihar’s leadership in GI registrations could enhance the state’s economic profile, particularly in agri-based industries and handicrafts. The GI framework, they argue, encourages product differentiation and protects traditional knowledge from misuse.
