Published Paper Details:

This article delves into the critical imperative of safeguarding the rich tapestry of indigenous people's local traditions, encompassing their cherished customary practices, values, and ethics, and it's intrinsic connection to their cultural identity. In an era characterized by rapid globalization and technological advancement, preserving these time-honored traditions has become an increasingly vital undertaking. Geographical indications (GIs) emerge as a compelling solution, heralding a paradigm shift in the realm of cultural preservation. By bestowing legal protection upon products that bear a unique geographic origin and possess qualities or characteristics intrinsic to that locale, GIs stand as a formidable fortress against the encroaching tide of homogenization. Illustrating the profound impact of GIs, the article draws upon emblematic exemplars like Pisa silk, renowned for its intricate craftsmanship, Swiss watches, a pinnacle of precision engineering, and Florida oranges, synonymous with lush, sun kissed groves. These hallmark instances underscore the role GIs play in shielding traditions and elevating them to the global stage. A compelling case study, the Roquefort cheese, is explored in detail. Its distinctive sharp, tangy, and salty flavors, combined with a sumptuous creamy texture, owe their uniqueness to the bacterium 'Penicillium roqueforti,' thriving exclusively within the caves of southern France's Toulouse region. The confluence of the humid atmosphere, the indigenous bacterium, and the use of rich sheep's milk encapsulates the essence of GI protection. This safeguards not just a product but an entire ecosystem of cultural practices, ensuring that future generations can relish the historical continuity embedded within each delectable bite.