New Delhi, Sep 17 - Like Basmati rice, Alphonso mangoes and Scotch whisky, the latest merchandise to be protected under 'geographical indication' are India's Benarasi saris and brocades, renowned for their intricate designs in silk and gold thread.

Registered under the Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, these saris will henceforth receive the same level of exclusivity that is accorded to Scotch whisky, Champagne or Tequila.

'The certificate would help genuine producers to legally counter increasing threats from saris produced in other regions and countries, but sold in India under the tag of Benaras sari,' said a UN agency.

'Geographical indications can also be commercially leveraged for enhancing incomes of weavers, while providing assurance of product quality to consumers,' added the statement by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Investment (Unctad).

This means that no sari or brocade made outside the six identified districts of Uttar Pradesh can be legally sold under the name of Benaras sari and brocade.

'The GI certificate has not only recognised the uniqueness and distinct identity of Benarasi saris, but also of related products such as silk brocades, dress material, bed and table covers manufactured in the traditional manner by weavers in six districts of Uttar Pradesh - Varanasi, Azamgarh, Chandauli, Jaunpur, Mirzapur and Sant Ravi Dass Nagar - Bhadohi,' the statement said.