The story of Indian Baobab

Baobab trees are fascinating trees, native to the regions of Africa. They predate the existence of mankind and can live up to 2,000 years. “Baobab” translates to ‘tree of life’ - rightly so, as they are a source of life and livelihood for communities where they grow- they are a source of food, with edible roots, leaves, and fruit, and have medicinal properties.?

In India, these trees are found in MP, Gujarat, UP, and Andhra Pradesh, and are especially found in abundance in the Mundu town of Madhya Pradesh. Recently, there have been efforts by the state government to get GI tags for these trees as a means to safeguard the trees against exploitation and disappearance. However, this raises several questions…

What is a Geographical Indicator??

A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.

What is a GI tag??

A GI tag is like a trademark for goods from a specific geographical location and has certain unique properties. Once a product is registered under the GI tag, the community that produces and sells it should pay a fee to the Department for Promotion, Industry, and Internal Trade to be recognized as an authorized user. The authorized user then has exclusive rights to use the GI tag in respect of goods for which it is registered.?

Indian Baobab?

The tree is an important source of livelihood for the Bhil tribe and has been under threat due to translocation projects, land availability, and exploitation. No work on conservation or aid to local communities to help with the preservation has been undertaken by the government so far.?

GI tagging itself is being seen as a method of conservation - as it offers recognition,? but identification and tagging flora does not ensure its protection and may place an additional burden on the communities to register the product to be recognized as authorized users under GI tagging.?

The fact also remains that such steps are being taken on behalf of the communities without any consultation with them.