Question

Analyze the following statements about rice varieties and intellectual property:
I. Navra and Gandhakshala are rice varieties with GI tags.
II. Ricetec is a multinational company that patented Basmati rice.
III. Chitteni and Modan are local varieties of rice.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

• A. I and II only
• B. II and III only
• C. III only
• D. I, II, and III

Answer 1

Answer:

D. I, II, and III

• Navara and Gandhakshala are traditional rice varieties from Kerala that have been granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags. The GI tag signifies that these rice varieties possess unique qualities and a reputation due to their origin in a specific geographical region. Navara rice is known for its medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic treatments. Gandhakshala rice is aromatic and is cultivated in Wayanad.
• Ricetec, a US-based company, was granted a patent on a 'Basmati rice line and grain'. This patent, issued in 1997, covered a new variety of rice developed by cross-breeding Basmati with other rice types, and claimed to have characteristics similar to traditional Basmati. This move sparked controversy and protests, particularly from India, as it was seen as an attempt to monopolize a grain deeply rooted in Indian culture and agriculture. India eventually challenged and succeeded in invalidating parts of the patent, asserting its traditional rights over Basmati.
• Chitteni and Modan are indeed local or indigenous varieties of rice found in Kerala. These varieties are often part of the traditional farming systems and contribute to the rich biodiversity of rice cultivation in the region. They are typically adapted to local agro-climatic conditions and are valued for their specific culinary and nutritional characteristics.
• The Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property right that identifies a good as having originated in a particular geographical location, where a specific quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin. India has a robust system for GI registration, protecting traditional knowledge and products.