INTERFACE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND ACADEMICS: A Workshop by AUKSCT IP CELL, Alliance University, Bengaluru
15 September, 2023
AUKSCT IP CELL at Alliance University in Bengaluru, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology, recently organized a two-day workshop titled 'Exploring the Confluence of Intellectual Property and Academics
Inaugural Address by Dr. S. Prakash
The event was inaugurated with a warm welcome from Dr. S. Prakash, the Dean of Research at Alliance University. Dr. Prakash underscored the contemporary significance of Intellectual Property (IP) in our world and how this workshop would serve as a valuable platform for understanding its importance and delving into the IP domain. He also outlined the workshop's schedule for the two days, highlighting the distinguished speakers who would be sharing their insights.
Special Address by Dr. Ray Titas
Following the welcome address, Dr. Ray Titas, Dean of the Alliance School of Business, delivered a special address. Dr. Titas delved into the modern landscape of IP and its associated rights. He notably discussed an intriguing example of an artwork created by Artificial Intelligence, a painting resembling 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' and elucidated how such creations are protected within the realm of IP.
Chief Guest Address by Dr. Prem Rajgopal
The Chief Guest, Dr. Prem Rajgopal, IPR Manager at ITC Ltd. Bengaluru, then addressed the audience. Dr. Rajgopal provided a comprehensive analysis of various rights under IP, encompassing copyrights, patents, trademarks, and more. He highlighted the pivotal role of IP in the academic sphere, particularly its relevance for law students as part of their academic journey.
Workshop Objective
The workshop aimed to foster awareness about Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and their intersection with various industries. It emphasized that IP is not merely a separate strategy but a standalone strategic component.
Key Workshop Sessions:
- Academic-IP Interface: Conducted by Dr. Prem Rajgopal, IPR Manager at ITC Ltd. Bengaluru, this session provided an overarching view of IP and its multifaceted rights. Dr. Rajgopal elucidated the importance of IP in various contexts and explored different approaches within the IP domain.
- Patent Subject Matters and Filing Procedure: Led by Mr. Nagarjun, MG, Project Associate at KSCST, this session delved into the fundamental aspects of patents. Legal provisions related to patents, patentability criteria, and eligible subjects for patents were discussed.
- Patent Drafting of Inventions: Conducted by Mr. Gaurav Mishra, Managing Associate and Attorney at M/S Bananal IP Counsel, Bengaluru, this session included a hands-on activity where students formed groups and prepared their own patent applications. The activity encompassed key elements like title, technical field, and claims.
- Copyright Infringement and Filings: Also presented by Mr. Nagarjun, MG, Project Associate at KSCST, this session centered on what constitutes copyright infringement and the process of filing for copyright protection.
- Hands-On Session on Prior Art Search: Dr. Sarasija Padmanabhan, WIPO tutor and Patent agent based in Bengaluru, led this session. It began with an introduction to patents and their components, followed by guidance on conducting prior art searches, a crucial step in the patent filing process.
- Role of Trademark in Business Incubation and Entrepreneurship: Presented by Mr. M G Kodandaram IRS (Retd.), NACIN & Consultant and Advocate, Bangalore, this session explored the significance of trademarks in the business and entrepreneurial landscape. An engaging activity encouraged students to identify and analyze trademarks of renowned companies.
- Importance of PPV & FR and GI Registrations: Conducted by Ms. Sangeetha Murali, Assistant Professor at Ramaiah Law College, Bangalore, this session delved into the significance of geographical indications (GIs) and tangible IP rights. The workshop also touched upon the Plant Varieties Act, designed to acknowledge and safeguard farmers' contributions to plant genetic resources.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the two-day workshop on "Exploring the Confluence of Intellectual Property and Academics," organized by AUKSCT IP CELL at Alliance University in collaboration with the Karnataka State Council for Science and Technology, was a resounding success. It provided a comprehensive platform for attendees to delve into the intricate world of Intellectual Property (IP) and its multifaceted applications in academia and various industries.
