Ambaji Mohanthal Prasad, the traditional sweet offering at Ambaji Temple in Gujarat, received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag on 8 October 2026. The application was submitted on 1 October 2026 by the Shree Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devsthan Trust. The certificate was handed over on 11 October 2026, the first day of the Sharadiya Navratri festival.
Geographical Indications in India
A GI identifies goods as originating in a particular territory, region or locality, where a quality, reputation or other characteristic is linked to that geographical origin. In India, GIs are registered under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The GI Registry operates under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks. The Act covers agricultural, natural and manufactured goods. A registered GI is protected for 10 years and can be renewed for further periods of 10 years. Registration gives authorised users the right to use the GI for the registered goods and provides legal protection against unauthorised use.
Registration of Ambaji Mohanthal
Ambaji Mohanthal Prasad is registered under Class 30, which covers products including confectionery and sweets. Its GI protection applies to the name “Ambaji Mohanthal”. The certificate was presented to Banaskantha Collector Mihir Patel, who is also the managing trustee of the Ambaji Temple trust. Prof. (Dr.) Unnat P. Pandit, Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks and Registrar of Geographical Indications, presented the certificate.
Ambaji Temple and Mohanthal
Ambaji Temple is in Banaskantha district, Gujarat, and is among India’s prominent Shaktipeeths. Mohanthal is made from gram flour, sugar and ghee. The sweet is offered as prasad at the temple and is associated with its religious and culinary traditions.
Important Facts for Exams
:
- The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act was enacted in 1999.
- The GI Registry functions under the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks.
- Ambaji Mohanthal Prasad is registered in Class 30 for food products such as sweets and confectionery.
- A registered GI is valid for 10 years and may be renewed for successive 10-year periods.
The application for Ambaji Mohanthal Prasad’s GI tag was filed by the Shree Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devsthan Trust. The certificate handover took place during Sharadiya Navratri in 2026.
