ICRISAT Successfully Conducts National Intellectual Property Yatra in Assam
Media Release
The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) successfully hosted a two-day National IP Yatra on 10 -11 March 2025, at the College of Veterinary Sciences, Assam Agricultural University, Guwahati. This significant event was organized by the Intellectual Property Facilitation Cell (IPFC) with support from the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India.
The National IP Yatra served as a pivotal platform for in-depth discussions on intellectual property (IP), innovation, funding, and policy frameworks. With participation from 222 individuals, including industry leaders, legal experts, startup mentors, government representatives, and innovators, the event fostered an engaged dialogue addressing key challenges and opportunities within India’s IP landscape.
The primary objective of the National IP Yatra was to create a knowledge-sharing platform for MSMEs, startups, and researchers. Participants gained insights into effectively leveraging IP as a business tool. Key discussions focused on bridging IP awareness gaps, accessing funding opportunities, strengthening India’s IP policies, and exploring strategies for international expansion.
Highlights of the Event:
The event featured an exceptional lineup of experts including seasoned legal professionals, government officials, startup incubator heads, IP strategists, and funding experts. Their contributions enriched discussions on critical issues faced by innovators today.
The first day focused on strengthening India’s IP landscape by bridging awareness gaps and enhancing policy frameworks to support MSMEs and startups. Experts emphasized the challenges businesses face in understanding and utilizing IP as a strategic asset, which often leads to missed funding opportunities and market expansion. Various aspects of public-private partnerships and knowledge transfer from academia to the industry were also discussed.
The second day was dedicated to leveraging IP for funding, investment, and international expansion. Government funding options and institutional financing for IP-driven startups were discussed while experts also highlighted challenges such as accessing grants and the banks' reluctance to accept IP as collateral.
Additionally, conversations addressed how investors view IP-backed businesses and the necessity for startups to align their IP strategies with market demands. The final session tackled global expansion challenges including international patent protection and data privacy laws.
The National IP Yatra in Assam reinforced the importance of a well-structured IP strategy for scaling businesses beyond India. ICRISAT remains committed to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of MSMEs and small innovators through an enhanced understanding of intellectual property rights.
Roseleen Aind
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