ICAR Guidelines for Intellectual Property Management and Technology Transfer/Commercialization (Revised in 2018)

Abstract

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) as the apex public research organization has been playing a key role in the innovation processes concerning agriculture. It has been appreciated that the focus of the R&D efforts should not only be limited to increasing the productivity, but the priorities need to be oriented towards devising strategies to enhance agricultural diversification and value addition of agricultural products. It is pertinent that the research outcomes are transformed into marketable products and services that can be leveraged to generate revenue which can be pooled to further enhance R&D pursuits in ICAR. The ICAR implemented comprehensive guidelines for Intellectual Property Management and Technology Transfer/Commercialization from 2nd October 2016. These Guidelines were meticulously conceptualised by the drafting Committee constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr. Rita Sharma, the then Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor ably assisted by Dr. Sudhir Kochhar, then Principal Scientist and Member Secretary of the Committee. The implementation of these Guidelines not only created an enabling policy framework but also facilitated in establishing the desired institutional mechanisms for systematic management of the intellectual property in ICAR. Thus, these provide the researchers in the ICAR institutes with procedures for operationalization and management of ICAR’s intellectual properties as per the new IP regimes. Nevertheless, the accelerated dissemination of innovative technologies requires their efficient transfer, to stakeholders whether in the private or public sector. The academic institutions in ICAR have several limitations in dealing with the commercialization of technologies and there are disconnects around mindset, attitude and skill sets. Realizing these constraints, Agrinnovate India Limited (AgIn) a registered Company, was established by Government of India in Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE). It aims to work on the strengths of ICAR and promote the development and spread of R&D outcomes through commercialization and forging partnerships both in the country and outside for the public benefit. Accordingly, the AgIn has developed its Guidelines for commercialization of technologies. In the changing global scenario, it is important to have an increased emphasis on fostering linkages between ICAR institutes and industry which requires a much more effective communication and understanding between the institutes and industry partners. Further, undertaking market analysis, marketing of ICAR products and services, identifying potential partners, developing technology transfer deals/agreements and accessing proof of concept funding through partnerships, are best entrusted to professionals rather than scientists and innovators. It is in this context that it was felt necessary to revise the existing ICAR Guidelines for Intellectual Property Management and Technology Transfer/ Commercialization, and harmonizing them with the AgIn Guidelines. The professional and transparent approach followed by AgIn would increase the pace of successfully converting research outputs generated in ICAR Institutes into commercially viable products and services that would contribute towards economic development and growth.