Experts Emphasize the Practical Implementation of Patents and Emerging Trends in Pharmacy
Udaipur, February 9 – The two-day International Conference on “Domains Beyond Patenting and Emerging Fields in Pharmacy: Opportunities and Challenges”, jointly organized by Pacific University and the Association of Community Pharmacists of India, concluded with a strong appeal to bridge the gap between innovation and its practical applications for the general public. The conference saw the participation of distinguished experts, researchers, and students from the pharmaceutical sector, engaging in insightful discussions on intellectual property rights (IPR), patents, and emerging pharmaceutical technologies.
The event also recognized outstanding research and presentations. Saloni Bhandari secured first place in oral presentations, followed by Dr. Manushi (second) and Dr. Ankita Joshi, Tanisha Agarwal, and Prashant Prajapati (third). Utkarsh Parmar received a consolation prize. In the poster presentation category, Mahima Khandelwal secured first place, Vinay Mewada came second, and Sahil Umrao, Sanskruti, and Vishal Swami were awarded third place.
Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights in Academia
Pacific Group of Education Founder Rahul Agarwal announced a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PAHER and Goa Center of Intellectual Property Rights, aiming to integrate IPR-focused academic advancements into the university’s curriculum. This collaboration is expected to enhance education quality and offer students valuable insights into intellectual property management.
The valedictory session was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Umesh V. Banakar (Professor & President, Banakar Consulting Services, Westfield, USA) as the Chief Guest, along with Prof. Hemant Kothari (President, Pacific University) as the Guest of Honor. Advocate Surbhi Sharma, Founder & Managing Partner of Intanzia Advisors LLP, a renowned patent, design, and trademark attorney, also shared her insights. The session further witnessed valuable contributions from Dr. Rahul Taneja (Patent & Trademark Agent) and Dr. Ambar Vyas (Associate Professor, Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur).
Expanding the Scope of Intellectual Property Beyond Patents
Dr. Umesh V. Banakar, in his keynote address, highlighted that intellectual property today extends far beyond patents. He emphasized the significance of copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and other intellectual property formats, which play a crucial role in shaping the future of innovation and research.
Advocate Surbhi Sharma stressed that patents should not remain mere legal documents but must be practically implemented. She elaborated on the legal aspects of IPR, ensuring necessary protection for new research and innovations.
Addressing the growing need for alternative intellectual property strategies, Prof. Bhagwati Prakash Sharma, Group President of Pacific Institutions, highlighted that innovations should be promoted not only through patents but also via other legal mechanisms that ensure commercial success in pharmacy and related fields.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Hemant Kothari distributed awards to the winners and underscored the challenges in non-patentable sectors such as business practices, algorithms, and natural discoveries. He also shed light on global and ethical challenges surrounding intellectual property, including the role of biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of intellectual rights.
The Intersection of Emerging Technologies and Intellectual Property
Dr. Rahul Taneja delved into emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and biotechnology, elaborating on their integration with intellectual property management. He explained how these technologies are revolutionizing the pharmaceutical industry and accelerating innovation.
Similarly, Dr. Ambar Vyas explored the commercial significance of non-patentable innovations in the pharmaceutical sector. He emphasized that many crucial innovations—including business methodologies, software algorithms, and natural discoveries—may not be patentable but still hold immense practical value.
Adding a real-world perspective, Udaipur-based entrepreneur Ritesh Agarwal, founder of Chemrobotics, shared his journey of leveraging IPR and patent technology to elevate Chemrobotics into a leading pharmaceutical company. His example underscored the importance of recognizing individual talent and strategically protecting innovations in the competitive market.
A Platform for Meaningful Industry-Academia Dialogue
The closing session featured reflections from experts on the conference’s key takeaways and its impact on research and innovation.
Expressing gratitude, Ankit Paliwal acknowledged the enthusiastic participation of delegates from across India, including students from various pharmacy institutions in the Udaipur division.
The Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy extended appreciation to all dignitaries, experts, and attendees, stating:
“This conference successfully fostered a meaningful dialogue between researchers and industry professionals, paving the way for significant advancements in pharmaceutical innovation and intellectual property development. The discussions held here will play a vital role in shaping the future of the pharmaceutical sector.”
The International Conference on Innovation and Intellectual Property Rights concluded on a highly productive and thought-provoking note, reinforcing the importance of research, innovation, and strategic intellectual property management in shaping the future of pharmacy and healthcare.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
