Maharashtra: Devgad Alphonso Mangoes to Feature UID Codes for Authenticity
Devgad Alphonso Mangoes to Feature UID Codes for Authenticity ( image Credit ANI )
Pune, March 18, 2025: To combat counterfeit sales and ensure the authenticity of Devgad Alphonso (Hapus) mangoes, the Devgad Taluka Mango Growers Cooperative Society Limited has introduced a Tamper Proof UID Seal (TP Seal) system. Going forward, all genuine Devgad Alphonso mangoes must carry this unique sticker to be marketed under the Devgad Alphonso or Devgad Hapus name.
This initiative aims to eliminate the widespread sale of counterfeit mangoes falsely labeled as Devgad Alphonso. By implementing a Geographical Indication (GI)-certified identification system, the Society seeks to protect farmers and ensure consumers receive only genuine Devgad Hapus mangoes.
Concerns Over Fake Mangoes Prompt Action
Adv. Omkar M. Sapre, Board Member of the Society, highlighted the growing issue of counterfeit sales:
“Devgad Alphonso mangoes, known for their unique aroma and taste, have built a reputation over a century. However, more than 80% of mangoes sold as Devgad Hapus today are not actually from Devgad. Over the last three decades, inferior mangoes from other regions have been sold under this name, depriving Devgad farmers of their rightful market share and causing serious socio-economic issues. This step was necessary under the provisions of the Geographical Indications Act, 1999.”
The Society has partnered with Mumbai-based Sun Solutions, a company specializing in patented UID technology, to implement this strict verification system.
How the TP Seal UID System Works
Each GI-registered farmer in Devgad will receive a TP Seal UID based on the number of trees and their production capacity. These stickers must be applied to each mango before it reaches the market.
Verification Process for Consumers:
- Each sticker has a unique alphanumeric code in two sections—one visible on the sticker and the other underneath.
- Consumers can verify authenticity by sending a WhatsApp message with a photo of the sticker to +91 9167668899.
- The system will prompt users to enter the second part of the code, revealed when the sticker is peeled off.
- If the code matches the TP Seal UID database, the consumer will receive details such as:
- Farmer’s/Vendor’s Name
- Village of Origin
- GI Registration Number
This anti-counterfeit system will boost consumer confidence and uphold the global reputation of Devgad Alphonso mangoes.
Strict Legal Action Against Counterfeit Sales
The Society has warned that selling mangoes under the Devgad Alphonso (Hapus) name without proper GI registration and UID will be considered a serious offense under the Geographical Indications Act, 1999, and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023.
Legal Provisions Under the GI Act, 1999:
- Sections 39 & 40: Prohibit the sale of goods with false GI marks, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of ₹2 lakh.
- Section 50: Classifies GI violations as cognizable offenses, enabling strict legal action.
Legal Provisions Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023:
- Sections 349 & 350: Penalize intentional sale of goods with counterfeit property marks, with imprisonment between one to three years and/or a fine.
The Society has strictly warned traders, middlemen, and retailers against fraudulent sales, emphasizing that legal action will be taken against anyone misrepresenting non-GI mangoes as Devgad Alphonso.
This initiative ensures that consumers receive genuine, high-quality Devgad Alphonso mangoes, safeguarding both farmers’ livelihoods and the mango’s legacy.
