SRINAGAR: Branch MSME Development and Facilitation Office (DFO), Srinagar, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), in collaboration with the Atal Incubation Centre, CSIR Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Sanatnagar, organised an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Awareness Program under the National IP Outreach Mission at IIIM Srinagar.
The program aimed to enhance awareness among entrepreneurs, start-ups, and MSMEs on the significance of Intellectual Property (IP) in driving innovation, improving competitiveness, and fostering business growth.
On the occasion, CEO, Atal Incubation Centre IIIM, Dr. Shahid Jibran, highlighted the pivotal role incubation centres play in nurturing innovation and supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
Assistant Director, Branch MSME DFO, provided an overview of the program and underlined the importance of IPR by sharing practical examples from the textile sector.
CEO, CIED, IUST Foundation also addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of IP awareness in promoting entrepreneurship and research-led innovation in the region. He also urged participants to actively explore opportunities in the field of entrepreneurship.
Managing Director, L-Crystal, delivered an engaging talk on “The Value of IP for a Successful Entrepreneur”, explaining how intellectual property serves as a strategic asset for startups and established enterprises alike. He elaborated on the various dimensions of IP that contribute to enterprise growth and its positive impact on society.
Further, the Assistant Director, Branch MSME DFO, elaborated on the Ministry’s efforts to strengthen IP facilitation and protection mechanisms for MSMEs and startups. He also introduced participants to two key financial support initiatives of the Ministry viz. Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) and SRI Funds, highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting innovation-driven enterprises.
During the Technical Session, Attorney, Intellectual Property, IP Facilitation Centre (IPFC), presented a comprehensive session on “How to Register IP and IPR Benefits to MSMEs through IPFC.” The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where participants engaged in meaningful discussions on IP filing, protection, and commercialisation.
The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 70 attendees, including scientists, researchers, representatives from Innovation Clubs/ATL Labs, and entrepreneurs.