Q. What is the present world scenario of intellectual property rights with respect to life materials? Although, India is second in the world to file patents, still only a few have been commercialized. Explain the reasons behind this less commercialization.

Model Answer:

Intellectual property rights (IPR)

Intellectual property rights (IPR) for life materials are at the forefront of global debates, balancing innovation with ethical concerns. The current scenario is characterized by:

• Increasing patents on genes, organisms, and biological processes
• Ongoing discussions on TRIPS agreement and its impact on developing nations
• Ethical debates surrounding the patenting of life forms, as seen in cases like the Myriad Genetics controversy over BRCA gene patents

India has emerged as the second-largest patent filer globally, particularly in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. However, the commercialization of these patents remains limited due to several factors:

1. Weak industry-academia collaboration:
• Lack of synergy between research institutions and commercial entities
• Example: Despite groundbreaking research in stem cells at institutions like NCCS Pune, commercial applications remain limited

2. Insufficient funding:
• Inadequate investment in R&D and commercialization processes
• Example: Indian biotech startups receive significantly less funding compared to their counterparts in the US or China

3. Regulatory hurdles:
• Complex approval processes and bureaucratic red tape
• Example: Delays in clinical trial approvals have hindered the development of indigenous vaccines

4. Skill gap:
• Shortage of professionals skilled in translating research into marketable products
• Limited expertise in areas like bioinformatics and genetic engineering

5. Infrastructure limitations:
• Inadequate facilities for scaling up innovations
• Lack of state-of-the-art equipment in many research institutions

6. Market access challenges:
• Difficulty in penetrating global markets due to stringent regulations and competition
• Limited domestic market for high-end biotechnology products

Conclusion: Addressing these challenges through policy reforms, increased funding, and skill development is crucial for India to leverage its patent potential and drive innovation commercialization.