Indian farmers are invariably at a disadvantage when it comes to protecting their intellectual property rights regarding their crops. They are simple folk, who don’t know where to begin.
But in Kerala, with Dr C.R. Elsy at hand, it has been much easier for several groups of farmers to assert themselves. Thanks to her efforts at the IPR Cell of the Kerala Agricultural University at Thrissur, eight crops now have Geographical Indication (GI).
The Chengalikodan banana is an example. It is a favourite during the Onam festival and is distinguished by its sweet taste and a red. . .