Unveiling the “Power of Patents” 

What is the importance of a patent conclave? Such a conclave allows innovators, entrepreneurs, and academics to converge, exchange ideas, and explore the significance of patents in protecting intellectual property. It fosters collaboration, drives innovation, and empowers individuals to leverage their creativity to address global challenges while ensuring fair recognition and rewards for their inventions.

Thus, aligned with this goal, Apeejay School of Management (ASM) in Dwarka recently hosted the 2nd World Innovation Patent Conclave. Being the first and the only MBA institute across the world, it organised the first one in 2021. 

The one-day event commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. Welcoming the dignitaries and expressing gratitude to the conclave team including Prof Anuj Kumar, faculty and convenor, as well as co-conveners Dr Ishita Adhikari, Dr Chhaya Wadhwa, Dr Pragya Arya and Dr Vernika Agarwal, Dr. Etinder Pal Singh, Deputy Director at ASM, highlighted the importance of protecting inventions through patents and copyrights.

He further shared with the audience the historical significance of patents while tracing back to the first patent awarded in India on March 3, 1856, for an efficient pankha-pulling machine.

The World Innovation Patent Conclave was graced by distinguished guests.  Lt. General P.J.S Pannu, PVSM, AVSM,VSM, presided over as the Chief Guest for the inaugural session. In his inaugural speech, Lt. General P.J.S Pannu reflected on the transformative power of innovation. The association of innovation with Apeejay School of Management while highlighting how adding ‘I’ to a name symbolises innovation. He also mentioned, “Innovation ignites aspirations and shapes the future.” 

Subsequently, the keynote address was delivered by Dr Pavan Duggal, Advocate, Supreme Court of India,  Expert Authority in Cyber Law. Dr Duggal delved into the evolving landscape of patents in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). He also highlighted the legal implications of AI as an inventor and the need for data privacy were explored. Examples and case studies were shared to illustrate the impact of AI on various domains, including fraud detection and privacy concerns.

The event was also graced by Mr Gursaurabh Singh, Founder and Inventor Dhruv Vidyut and Shark Tank India Fame, who presided over as the Guest of Honour. He elaborated on the distinction between “invention and innovation”. “Unless we face problems, we will not require the reason to think about how to solve a problem. More problems mean more innovation. When there is a lesser problem, it’s a bigger problem,” highlighted Mr Gursaurabh Singh.

Following Mr Gursaurabh Singh’s speech, Mr Govind Kedia,  Director of Arctic Invent at Basck UK addressed the gathering. He spoke how patents play a crucial role in translating innovative ideas into tangible assets for businesses. The rapid evolution of technology and its implications for patenting and value creation were discussed, emphasising the need for protecting intellectual property.

Post which, supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s idea of ‘Viksit Bharat’, Dr. Ehtiram Raza Khan, Sr. Academician in Jamia Hamdard, said, “As academicians, it is our responsibility to guide the students to translate their ideas into patents. Indian brains are the best and we can do wonders,” he appreciated.

He further explained the ways to file patents and discussed the relevance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for researchers across various domains.

Following this, Prof Anuj Kumar shared with the audience how this journey of patent conclave started in 2021. Finally, Dr. Ishita Adhikar the vote of thanks and shared how this one-day event provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions and knowledge exchange on the significance of patents in fostering innovation. The event underscored the importance of protecting intellectual property rights and leveraging innovation to address global challenges. 

The conclave also featured presentations by students and academics, showcasing innovative projects and initiatives followed by a panel discussion on “How technology and innovation shaping Viksit Bharat”.

The day-long conclave concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, awarding scholars for submitting great research papers and case studies.