UP Accelerates GI Certification Drive To Boost Local Heritage & Entrepreneurship

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh is set to consolidate its position as India’s leader in Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, with the state government targeting 152 certified items by the end of 2025–26. Acting on Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, the MSME Department has fast-tracked efforts to expand GI certification and promote grassroots entrepreneurship.

Currently, 77 products from UP enjoy GI status, more than any other Indian state. Applications for 25 new products are being submitted to the GI Registry in Chennai, and preparations are underway to file for 75 more in the next fiscal year. To boost recognition and reach, the government is expanding its pool of authorized GI users—local entrepreneurs certified to produce and market GI-tagged goods. These individuals will be formally recognised to protect authenticity and improve product visibility.

The MSME Department has partnered with Human Welfare Association, a reputed GI expert organisation, to assist in this expansion. The collaboration is expected to safeguard heritage products from imitation and ensure that their traditional value translates into commercial success.

GI tags play a vital role in preserving regional identity, enhancing export potential, and sustaining rural livelihoods.

Other frontrunners in GI certification include Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra.