Geographical Indications Lawyers in India
MAHESHWARI & CO. advises clients on protecting and enforcing GI rights to stop counterfeiting, misuse, and dilution of reputation in domestic and export markets.
Our services cover GI registration, renewal, opposition, infringement actions, and enforcement before courts and registries.
We ensure compliance with the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 and align strategies with TRIPS and other international obligations for stronger cross-border protection.
Services Offered
Advisory on Registrability and Compliance
We assess whether a product meets the legal requirements for Geographical Indication protection under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. Our GI lawyers in India have advised producer groups, associations, and cooperatives on eligibility criteria, documentation, and compliance.
Drafting and Filing GI Applications
Our team prepares GI applications with detailed descriptions of product qualities, reputation, and the link to the geographical origin. We manage the entire filing process before the GI Registry, ensuring all evidence, maps, and affidavits are accurately prepared to support the application.
GI Prosecution
We handle all communications with the GI Registry. This includes responding to examination reports, addressing objections raised by the Registrar, and providing clarifications or supplementary evidence to strengthen the application.
Authorized User Registration
We assist in registering as authorized users of a registered GI. This includes preparing the necessary documentation, filing applications, and guiding clients through the approval process to ensure lawful use of the GI name.
Opposition and Cancellation Proceedings
Our lawyers represent clients in opposing third-party GI applications that may conflict with their rights and in initiating cancellation actions against wrongfully registered GIs. We also defend clients against oppositions, safeguarding their legitimate GI interests.
International GI Protection
We advise overseas clients, industry bodies, and governments on protecting GIs in India, complying with the Geographical Indications Act, and meeting TRIPS and other international treaty obligations.
IP Due Diligence
We examine ownership and chain of title, confirm validity, term, and geographical scope of protection, and address encumbrances or co-ownership issues. Our review includes licenses, royalty arrangements, and litigation history, while identifying gaps, expired registrations, and unutilized rights.
Why Choose Us as Your Geographical Indications Lawyers in India??
Over Two Decades of Proven Expertise
With more than 2 decades of legal practice, we have wide experience in protecting and enforcing Geographical Indications for agricultural goods, handicrafts, manufactured products, and more.
Complete GI Legal Support
We manage all aspects of GI services, including eligibility assessment, registration, opposition, enforcement, and authorized user applications. We work with producer groups, associations, cooperatives, and businesses to protect their GI rights in India.
Client-Focused Approach
We recognise that GI protection is not only about legal processes but also about preserving heritage, maintaining product quality, and improving market reach. Our work aims to give clients legal security and support their long-term growth.
Work Highlights
Advised the producer association in securing GI registration for a regional food product
We assisted a collective of local producers in obtaining GI protection for a specialty food item with unique qualities linked to its place of origin. Our role included compiling historical documentation, preparing technical specifications, and addressing objections raised by the GI Registry.
Represented a GI holder in enforcement proceedings before the High Court
Our team acted for a registered GI proprietor in an infringement matter concerning unauthorized use of the GI name. Drawing on principles affirmed in Indian GI case law, we secured a favourable order that upheld the client’s exclusive rights and restricted misuse in the market.
Handled opposition involving homonymous GIs before the GI Registry
We represented a producer group in a registry dispute involving a homonymous GI claimed by parties from different regions. Our submissions established clear differentiation through product specifications and geographic qualifiers, leading to the client’s successful registration.
Testimonials Of Clients
FAQ
We combine deep knowledge of the Geographical Indications Act with hands-on experience in registration, opposition, and enforcement, ensuring your GI rights are secure from application to dispute resolution.
We take immediate action through legal notices, infringement suits, and coordination with enforcement agencies to stop misuse and preserve your product’s market reputation.
If your product’s qualities or reputation are linked to a specific location, we can evaluate its eligibility and guide you through every step of the application process.
Yes. We work with overseas producer groups and associations to secure protection for foreign GIs under Indian law through the reciprocity provisions.
Under normal circumstances, GI registration in India can take 12-24 months, depending on the completeness of the application and whether there are any objections or oppositions.
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Let our experience pave the path to your success.