The Hon’ble Union HRD Minister, launched the IIC program under the Innovation Cell at AICTE, with a purpose to systematically foster a culture of innovation in all Higher Education Institutions across the nation. Talking about Inventive Step, Ms. Shwetasree Majumder, Principal at Fidus Law Chambers said that it involves technical advance as compared to the existing knowledge or having economic significance or both.
Ms. Shwetasree Majumder explained patent as an exclusive right to an inventor to capitalize an invention and prevent third parties from manufacturing, using, selling or importing the said invention. She further talked about the topic 'What is not patentable?'
Ms. Shwetasree Majumder also pointed out some patented inventions we use on a daily basis. Talking about copyright, she added that it is an exclusive right given by law for original literary, dramatic, musical, artistic works, cinematograph films and sound recordings.
Ms. Shwetasree Majumder further highlighted that Trademark is a mark capable of being represented graphically and capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one person from those of others, such as a visual symbol, word, name, label, numerals of combination of colours.
Talking about the scope of protection for trademarks, Ms. Shwetasree Majumder said that descriptive words, national and regional symbols, single colour, functional or common shapes, single numeral & letters functional packaging can not be used as trademarks.
Talking about counterfeiting, Ms. Shwetasree Majumder said that counterfeit product is either an exact copy of a genuine product, with the same words, logos and colors or so “similar” that you mistake it for the real product.
Ms. Shwetasree Majumder also talked about Geographical Indications and it's importance. Explaining the same, she said that It's a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
Ms. Majumder also explained the term 'Trade Secret' and deliberated on ways to protect the same. She added that businesses can protect its trade secrets through confidentiality agreements for its employees and vendors, and by restricting access to information by other means. Ms. Majumder also highlighted the prerequisites for the protection of #IntellectualProperty, deliberating on the importance of the same simultaneously.
