Round Table Discussions Of The South Asian Global Intellectual Property Summit, 2024 Sets A New Benchmark In Regional Collaboration [21st - 22nd December]

Day 1: Intellectual Property for Regional Collaboration

The discussions commenced on December 21, 2024, with a session titled “Intellectual Property for Regional Collaboration” chaired by Prof. Dr. Syamala Kandadai, Dean of Faculty at the National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi, India. The panel featured eminent speakers, including Prof. Dr. Arhan Sthapit from Nepal Open University, Nepal, Prof. Dr. Aziz-ur-Rehman from Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan and Prof. (Adv.) Dipak G. Parmar, Founder of Cyber-IPR,India. The event was hosted by Ms. Preyansi Anand Desai, a student member at CDIPR and a fifth-year student at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.

The discussions began with an overview by Prof. Dr. Syamala Kandadai, who emphasised the urgency of robust IP enforcement to safeguard innovation and promote sustainable development. Highlighting South Asia's immense potential as a hub for innovation and cultural heritage, Dr. Syamala stressed the necessity of harmonizing IP laws across the region to bolster trade and technology transfer. She described IP as “the future oil” essential for industrial and economic survival in an increasingly tech-driven world.

Prof. Dr. Arhan Sthapit delved into the session “Harmonising Regional IP Laws for Economic and Cultural Integration”. He argued that aligning regional IP frameworks could act as a catalyst for both economic growth and cultural preservation. Drawing examples from Nepal's strides in biodiversity conservation through effective IP laws, Prof. Sthapit outlined strategies for fostering regional dialogue and capacity-building efforts to synchronize policies.

The second session, “Digital Transformation and IP: Strengthening Legal Frameworks” featured Prof. (Adv.) Dipak G. Parmar. He explored the challenges posed by digital innovations like artificial intelligence, which blur the lines between human and machine creativity. Highlighting issues such as deepfakes and AI generated art, he underscored the need for balanced policies that safeguard creators' rights while fostering innovation.

The first day concluded with a Q&A session where the panelists addressed pressing issues such as gaps in existing IP frameworks and the benefits of unified regional policies.

Day 2: Addressing IP Enforcement and Innovation Challenges

The discussions on December 22, 2024, were equally compelling, with a focus on enforcement and innovation challenges. Chaired by Prof. Dr. Syamala Kandadai, the second day featured an illustrious panel comprising Prof. Dr. M. R. Sreenivasa Murthy from the National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi, India; Prof. Dr. Nalin Bharti from IIT Patna, India; Dr. Pankaj Kumar from National Law University and Judicial Academy, Assam, India; Ms. Uza Fathimath Waheeda from The Maldives National University, Maldives; and Prof. Dr. Md. Towhidul Islam from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

The session began with Prof. Dr. Nalin Bharti discussing “IP Enforcement Challenges: Combating Piracy and Counterfeiting”. Dr. Bharti brought attention to the widespread issue of unauthorized sales of Ayurvedic medicines and the complexities surrounding online IP infringement. He cited landmark cases of copyright misuse and emphasized the economic and legal ramifications of piracy. Dr. Bharti underscored the importance of robust enforcement mechanisms and international cooperation to curb piracy and protect rights holders.

Dr. Pankaj Kumar's session, “The Future of Startups and SMEs: Leveraging IP for Innovation” addressed the unique challenges faced by startups and small enterprises in navigating IP systems. He advocated for streamlining Geographical Indication registration processes and enhancing awareness among stakeholders. Dr. Kumar criticized the inefficiency in patent processing timelines, calling for stricter accountability among officials to ensure timely adjudication. He urged startups and SMEs to voice their concerns actively and engage with policy frameworks to maximize the benefits of IP protection.

The panel also featured Ms. Uza Fathimath Waheeda, who presented a session titled “IP in Small Island Nations: Emerging Challenges and Opportunities”. Drawing from her experience in the Maldives, Ms. Waheeda highlighted the vulnerabilities of small island nations to copyright piracy and the challenges of adapting IP frameworks to the digital age. She proposed innovative solutions such as specialized courts for technology-related disputes and increased international collaboration to bridge gaps in enforcement.

A keynote address by Prof. Dr. M. R. Sreenivasa Murthy titled “The Role of IP in South Asia's Sustainable Development” was the highlight of the second day. Dr. Murthy emphasized the importance of global cooperation in overcoming IP barriers to foster equitable technological advancement. He discussed the unique position of South Asia as a critical region for global economic and cultural growth, urging nations to prioritize collective development over individual agendas. His call for unity in addressing challenges such as climate change through IP reforms resonated deeply with the audience.

The day concluded with a collaborative Q&A where panelists addressed audience queries on topics like the role of regional frameworks such as SAARC in tackling IP violations and leveraging IP to protect traditional knowledge.

Mr. Dipendu Das (Director, Centre for Development of Intellectual Property and Research, Naovina Development of Intellectual Property and Research Foundation) concluded the session by expressing gratitude to all speakers, contributors, and the organizing team for their efforts in making the summit a success. He summarized the five key action points derived from the discussions, which will be submitted to the Ministry of External Affairs for consideration:

1. Formation of a South Asian Intellectual Property Global Alliance: A dedicated platform to focus on IP-specific issues and foster regional collaboration.
2. Emphasis on Training Programs: Addressing the gaps in IP awareness and understanding by implementing targeted training initiatives.
3. Empowering Startups and MSMEs: Ensuring these entities effectively utilize IP frameworks to drive innovation and economic growth.
4. Policy Harmonization and Collaboration: Advocating for consistent policies across the region to encourage cooperation and mutual growth.
5. Digital Initiatives: Leveraging technology to enhance regional and global collaboration in the IP domain.

For more details of the sessions, refer to a detailed report here