Pune: In a major step towards protecting the authenticity of Devgad Alphonso (Hapus) mangoes, the Devgad Taluka Mango Growers Cooperative Society Limited, the official proprietor of the Alphonso GI (Geographical Indication) tag, has introduced a Tamper Proof UID Seal (TP Seal) system.
With this initiative, all authentic Devgad Alphonso mangoes must now carry a mandatory UID sticker, ensuring that consumers receive only genuine, GI-certified mangoes. The move aims to eliminate counterfeit mangoes that are misleadingly sold under the Devgad Alphonso name.
Advocate Omkar Sapre, Board Member of the Society, highlighted the urgent need for this measure. “The Devgad Alphonso mango, cultivated in Devgad Taluka of Sindhudurg district, has built its legacy over a century for its unique aroma and taste. However, over 80% of mangoes sold as Devgad Hapus are not actually from Devgad. For decades, inferior mangoes from other regions have been falsely marketed under this premium brand, severely impacting local farmers,” he stated.
To tackle this challenge, the Society is leveraging advanced UID technology developed by Mumbai-based Sun Solutions, ensuring foolproof identification of genuine Devgad Alphonso mangoes.
How the UID TP Seal System Works
Each GI-registered farmer in Devgad is allocated a set number of Tamper Proof UID stickers, corresponding to their tree count and production capacity. These stickers will be applied to every mango before it reaches the market.
Consumer Verification Process:
Each sticker features a unique alphanumeric code split into two sections—one visible and the other underneath.
Consumers can verify authenticity by sending a WhatsApp message with a photo of the sticker to +919167 668899.
The system will prompt the user to enter the second part of the hidden code (which separates when peeled off).
If the codes match, the system will instantly confirm authenticity, displaying details like:
Farmer’s or Vendor’s Name
Village of Origin
GI Registration Number
This process enhances consumer confidence and reinforces the reputation of Devgad Alphonso mangoes in global markets.
Strict Legal Action Against Counterfeit Sales
The Society has issued a strict warning against traders, middlemen, and retailers engaging in fraudulent sales of non-GI mangoes under the Devgad Alphonso name. Violators will face legal consequences under:
Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 (GI Act):
Section 39 & 40: Prohibits the sale of goods with false GI marks, punishable by up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹2 lakh.
Section 50: Classifies the offense as cognizable, allowing strict legal action.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 (BNS):
Sections 349 & 350: Penalize intentional sale of counterfeit goods, with imprisonment ranging from one to three years and/or a fine.
