TMU News: Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) & Patents at the Department of Physiotherapy
The Department of Physiotherapy, Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), Moradabad, in collaboration with the Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Intellectual Property Management (RGNIIPM), Government of India, Nagpur, successfully organised an online workshop on “Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) & Patents and Design Filing” under the National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM).
The event, held on 25th August 2025 at LT-603, 5th Floor, Department of Physiotherapy, witnessed the participation of Honourable HOD Mrs Shivanee M. Kaul, faculty members, and BPT students from 1st, 3rd, 5th semester, and final year.
Expert Resource Person
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Bharat N. Suryawanshi, Assistant Controller of Patents & Designs, RGNIIPM, Nagpur. With over 20 years of experience at the Patent Office under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Dr Suryawanshi is a distinguished authority in the field of IPR.
- Holds a PhD in Medicinal Plant Studies, M.Phil. in Microbiology, and a postgraduate degree in Biotechnology.
- Has delivered lectures across India and published extensively in national and international journals.
- Received advanced IPR training in Tokyo, Japan.
- Played a pivotal role in India’s IPR landscape by rejecting Pfizer’s patent application for an arthritis drug, a landmark decision in strengthening India’s patent law framework.
Key Highlights of the Session
The workshop commenced with a warm welcome at 9:00 AM, followed by the main technical session that began at 10:10 AM.
Dr Suryawanshi’s session on “Intellectual Property Rights & Patents and Design Filing” covered:
- Fundamentals of Intellectual Property Rights.
- Patent filing procedures in India.
- Importance of protecting innovations.
- Case examples of patents and design filings safeguarding creators’ rights.
The resource person provided real-world insights, emphasising the role of IPR in academic research, innovation, and professional growth.
Interactive Engagement
At 10:45 AM, the workshop transitioned into an interactive Q&A session, where students and faculty raised thought-provoking questions. Dr Suryawanshi addressed queries with practical examples, bridging the gap between theory and application.
The workshop concluded between 10:55 and 11:00 AM with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging:
- Dr Bharat N. Suryawanshi for his expert guidance.
- Teerthanker Mahaveer University and the Department of Physiotherapy for hosting the program.
- RGNIIPM for their collaboration.
- Students and faculty for their active involvement.
Outcomes of the Workshop
The event successfully enriched the participants’ knowledge of intellectual property rights, patents, and design filing. The session enhanced awareness about the importance of safeguarding innovations, strengthening research practices, and promoting innovation in academia.
Faculty and students alike expressed enthusiasm for future workshops on IPR, recognising its increasing significance in shaping careers in research, innovation, and healthcare.
Conclusion
The IPR Workshop at Teerthanker Mahaveer University’s Department of Physiotherapy proved to be an informative and inspiring initiative. By bringing together students, faculty, and a distinguished IPR expert, the program highlighted the crucial role of intellectual property in protecting ideas and innovations.
With this workshop, TMU reaffirmed its commitment to fostering academic excellence, research integrity, and innovation-driven learning among its students and faculty.
