Imphal, February 26, 2010: A day-long sensitisation programme on 'Intellectual Property Rights' jointly organised by MSME Development Institute and All Manipur Entrepreneurs Association was held at Hotel Classic today.

Speaking as the chief guest, Principal Secretary (Commerce and Industries) IAS O Nabakishore Singh said industrialists and entrepreneurs need to possess the qualities of being informatics and knowledgable about the products.

stressing that as a business strategy or process there is the need of being well informed and the product duly registered, he cautioned that in case of failure to register the product the design is exposed to threat of being copied or adulteration.

Substantiating his observation, the Principal Secretary pointed to Moirang Phi and Wangkhei Phi trademark designs being used in other States as saree borders which is evident from the fact that news anchor persons and even Sonia Gandhi have been wearing garments having similar designs as Moirang Phi and Wangkhei Phi.

In his address, former Director (Commerce & Industries) Dhiraj Yumnam said in the changing global scenario, the issue of intellectual property rights (IPR) has gained special importance for the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sectors.

IPR plays a very important role in gaining competitive advantage in terms of technological gain for achieving higher economic growth in the market, the former Director maintained.

He further stated that the Indian MSME sector needs more information, orientation and facilities for protecting intellectual powers as majority of the countries have already adopted strategies for strong IPR protection in order to strengthen industrial units and trade activities.

Indian industries, particularly the MSME are lagging behind in recognising the importance or adoption of IPR as a business strategy for enhancing compatibility, Dhiraj opined.

Comment