2024 Activities

Legal Aid -Consultation. Meeting with APMC Stakeholder - Tiptur Coconut

The Ramaiah Intellectual Property Rights Cell conducted a field survey at the place named Tiptur on 1st January 2024 , Which is Known for its unique coconut cultivation, aiming to file a Geographical Indication application for Tiptur Coconut and Coconut Products. The team engaged in legal awareness sessions, open discussions with Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) and Farmer Producer Organization(FPO), documenting the cultivation and Marketing processes. Challenges, Milestones and the traditional methods were highlighted by the stakeholders, emphasising the pursuit of GI tag.

Legal Aid -Consultation and Closed Group Discussion with Producers of Jonni Bella.

The Ramaiah Intellectual Property Rights initiative aimed to file a Geographical Indication application for Joni Bella of Uttara Kannada district. The team conducted a field visit at Sirsi on 22nd January 2024, Interacting with producers to gather insights about the unique jaggery. The visit included observations at production units, discussions with a female-run cooperative milk society, and engagement with the Dodnalli Shambulingeshwara Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) Office and executive members and spoke to the president, the CEO along with few cultivators for highlighting the importance of forming a cooperative society for the GI Tag application. The field visit emphasised the cultural roots of Joni Bella's production, linking it to local traditions and showcasing the role of geographical indications in preserving heritage and promoting sustainable practices.

Legal Aid -Consultation and Closed Group Discussion Regarding Formation of Producers Organization. - Hase chitra.

On January 22nd 2024 Research team of RIPRC went to a place called Siddapura ,Meeting held at Mr. Ishwara Naik residence , a renowned 'Hase Chittara' artist who holds copyrights for his paintings. The meeting aimed to educate him about cooperative societies and encourage him to form one. Discussions included the origin and significance of 'Hase Chittara,' with Mr. Naik sharing insights into his student period, contributions to the art field, and dedication to his passion. He highlighted his unique master subject focused on human behaviour, marriage, and festivals in Uttara Kannada District. Trained by his mother in 'Hase Chittara,' The meeting concluded by focusing on the establishment of a cooperative society, with Mr. Naik's daughters continuing his artistic legacy as budding 'Hase Chittara' artists.

Legal Aid -Consultation and Closed Group Discussion Regarding Formation of Producers Organization. - Kaavi kale

On January 23rd, 2024, A research team of RIPRC visited the 'Arda Ganapathi' temple in Banavasi, Uttara Kannada. The temple's four pillars were adorned with vibrant 'Kaavi Kale' paintings, each displaying intricate and unique designs and had a discussion with the temple priest . The temple is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), ensuring the preservation of its paintings, sculptures, and overall structure. Later that day, a visit to the 'Jain Temple' near Bhatkal, Uttara Kannada, revealed no evidence of 'Kaavi Kale' artwork. Similar to the 'Arda Ganapathi' temple, the 'Jain Temple' is also protected by the ASI. The experience concluded with satisfaction at witnessing authentic 'Kaavi Kale' at the protected 'Arda Ganapathi' temple.

A Comprehensive Legal Awareness and Stakeholder group discussion for Documentation of Feasibility Study Report - Sanikatta Salt.

On 24th January 2024 , A research team of RIPRC conducted a field study at Sanikatta Salt cooperative society at Gokarna. Meeting was held between the stakeholders of The Nagarabail Salt Owners Cooperative Society Ltd. which is the only owner’s cooperative society in India which started before independence at the time of Britishers and still exists . The study focused on the traditional and modern techniques , ecological footprints, community dynamics and identified challenges and opportunities. The primary objective was to compile information for the feasibility study report of the Geographical Indication (GI) product, Sanikatta Salt.

Consultation and Feasibility Study for Honnavar Betel Leaf.

 

On January 24th, 2024, A research team of RIPRC visited a village named Arolli in Honnavar Taluk of Uttara Kannada District , Conducted a field study focusing on the geographical indication application for Honnavar Betel Leaf. The team interviewed local farmers and sellers, including Mr. Dathatraya Bhat and Mr. Satish Bhat, who emphasised the uniqueness of the betel leaf , cultivation process and manures used . Additionally the historical significance of “Rani Elle” was discussed . The field visit enriches understanding and supports the collaboration of RIPRC and the protection of this unique product.

Legal Aid -Consultation and Closed Group Discussion Regarding Formation of Producers Organization. - Kagga Rice

On January 24th, 2024, A research team of RIPRC visited Gazani land in a village named Manikatta, And Conducted a field study focusing on the geographical indication application and discussion regarding formation of Cooperative society with group of Kagga rice farmers, including well-known individuals like Manjunath Patgar, Ramchandra Patgar, Ganesh Patgar, and Shridhar Pai, convened in a major meeting chaired by the Ramaiah Intellectual Property Rights Cell to talk about creating a cooperative society. Their conference was mostly focused on the need to obtain a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for their prized rice variety.

VALUE ADDED COURSE ON PATENT TRANSACTION : COMPLIANCE AND PRACTICE

Ramaiah Centre for Intellectual Property Rights (RCIPR) in collaboration with Ramaiah College of Law conducted a Value Added course on Patent Transactions: Compliance and Practice from 11 January 2024 to 13 March 2024. The Course intended to focus on pre- Grant patent transactions at the Patent Office and the practice and compliance related to the same. The course addressed a mix of legal and transactional issues that IP Lawyers face regarding patent filing, preliminary skills in drafting the Patent Applications Prior Art Search and the vital issues in the field of IP practice. The resource persons for the course were Ms. Sangeetha Murali S ,Assistant Professor & Coordinator, RCIPR and Dr Sarasija Padmanbhan, Patent Agent and WIPO Tutor. The course was attended by the final year students of Ramaiah College of Law.

POSTER MAKING

Inspired by the theme for World Intellectual Property Day 2024: “Intellectual Property and the Sustainable Development Goals: Building our common future with innovation and creativity”, RCIPR conducted a poster-making competition titled ‘ Canvas Clash : A poster art spectacle on 23.05.2024. The competition aimed to raise understanding among the students about the importance of advancing Sustainable Development Goals in Innovation and Creativity.The competition focused on two themes: "Innovation towards food security and sustainable development" and "IP’s for the upliftment of rural and indigenous communities." The event also aspired to create an open source database of posters which can be used to create awareness during various events conducted by KSCST and other governmental and non-governmental organisations. The posters would be freely accessible to all the stakeholders for promoting SDGs during any non-profit activity with due acknowledgement. This event was open to students of Ramaiah College of Law,and all students throughout the state. Submissions were taken through digital forms of art as well as traditional methods. There were a total of 59 participants. There were 12 students from Ramaiah College of Law, 47 students from Ramaiah Vidyaniketan and 3 students who participated online.

First Place: - Omija Prakash, BA LLB - B, 3rd year, Ramaiah College of Law Kaviya Shri, Bcom LLB 3rd year, Ramaiah College of Law

Second Place: - Nikitha & Esha, RCPUC

Third Place: - Aditya Deepak, Seshadripuram Evening College

Special Mention: Prajna V, Bcom LLB 2nd year Ramaiah College of Law Chandan P.B., RCPUC Ashik P, BBA LLB, 3rd year, Ramaiah College of Law

WORKSHOP ON ‘LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR PRODUCER ORGANISATIONS IN INDIA’

The Ramaiah Centre for Intellectual Property Rights (RCIPR) hosted a workshop titled 'Legal Framework for Producer Organizations in India' on 30th May 2024. The event, aimed at exploring the legal framework of producer organisations, focused on the significant role these entities play in empowering artisans, farmers, and manufacturing communities, thereby contributing to the economy. Dr. S.B.N. Prakash, retired District and Sessions Judge and adjunct professor at Ramaiah College of Law, led the session, providing valuable insights into the impact of cooperative societies on Geographical Indications (GI)-tagged products. Dr. Prakash discussed the importance of Intellectual Property, specifically GIs, in adding unique value to regional products and enhancing market recognition.

Feasibility study for Rajamudi Rice

A Research Group of RCIPR, conducted a field study, consultation meetings and closed group discussions with various stakeholders of Rajmudi rice at Hassan and Hole Narsipura taluks on 26 June 2024. The purpose of the visit was to gather information regarding the feasibility of filing a geographical indication tag for Rajamudi Rice. The parameters considered included the process of production, environmental factors, market situation, producers' organisation, if any and quality control mechanism.

A meeting was held with the Deputy Director of Agriculture, Hassan, Mr. Ashok M. who provided valuable insights into the cultivation and significance of Rajamudi Rice.

Additionally, discussions with Dr. Rajendra Gowda, Senior Scientist at Krishi Vigyan Kendra(KVK), enriched the study with technical information essential to comprehending the crop's characteristics. Dr. Gowda had carried out experiments regarding Rajamudi Rice wherein he found out that Rajamudi Rice grown outside Hassan is different in terms of taste and aroma when compared to the Rajamudi Rice grown at Hassan. Hence, he assured that Rajamudi Rice indeed has a geographical relation to Hassan district which makes it unique from other rice varieties.

Following this, the research team interviewed an independent producer of Rajamudi Rice, Mr. G S Shivappa with the aid of the questionnaire prepared beforehand. Moreover, Dr. M.S. Nagaraj from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Holenarsipura, shared detailed insights into various studies conducted on Rajamudi Rice, highlighting its unique attributes.

Furthermore, interactions with the Rajamudi Farmer Producer Company Ltd., allowed them to directly engage with the rice producers, gaining firsthand knowledge of their experiences and practices related to Rajamudi Rice cultivation.

QUIZ COMPETITION: INTELLECT CLASH

Ramaiah Centre for Intellectual Property Rights along with Ramaiah College of Law successfully hosted a quiz competition, Intellect Clash, centered around the theme “Science and Technology Through the Ages.” The event aimed to deepen students’ understanding of scientific concepts and technological advancements, while igniting curiosity in science and technology-related careers. Participants from various colleges around Bangalore enthusiastically competed, showcasing their knowledge and quick thinking. The quiz not only enriched the academic environment but also fostered critical thinking and teamwork.