Pushpa Gujral Science City Organises Webinar Series on Intellectual Property Rights

Jalandhar, July 17 - In a bid to educate the community about the importance of intellectual property rights (IPR), Pushpa Gujral Science City, in collaboration with Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council, Government of India, organised a two-day webinar series.

The first day focused on researchers and industry stakeholders, while the second day shed light on the commercial aspects of IPR for the broader community. Topics such as trademarks, geographic indications, and farmers' rights were extensively debated during the sessions.

Trademark Attorney Vishnumohan Rethinam emphasized that trademarks are a key asset in providing long-term competitive advantage and identity to businesses. He noted that they not only enhance brand value but also help distinguish products from those of competitors through quality and origin.

Science City's Director General, Dr Neelima Jerath, discussed geographic indications as signs used on products originating from specific geographical locations with unique properties. These indicate an entity can be assured fair pricing for their products while safeguarding community rights.

Retired Professor at GB Pant University for Agriculture and Technology, Dr HS Chawla, presented information about plant varieties protection and farmer's rights. The development of new crops relies heavily on such intellectual property rights granted to plant breeders, researchers, and farmers.

Scientists Divya Kaushik from the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology also addressed key aspects of IP management and discussed government schemes supporting IPR filing and commercialization.