An Empirical Study on Growth of IPR during Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to the global healthcare system, necessitating rapid innovation and collaboration to combat the virus. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) have played a crucial role in promoting innovation and providing legal protection to inventors and innovators. This article provides an overview of the development of IPR in the context of COVID-19 in India. It discusses the various types of intellectual property protections available, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, and their relevance in the healthcare sector during the pandemic. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to IPR to ensure both incentivization for innovation and equitable access to essential healthcare technologies and treatments. Furthermore, the article examines the initiatives taken to support IPR during the COVID-19 crisis. It explores the expedited patent examination procedures and the establishment of the "COVID-19 Response" portal to fast-track patent applications related to the pandemic. The article addresses the challenges and debates surrounding IPR during the pandemic. It delves into issues related to licensing agreements, technology transfer, and the balance between proprietary rights and the global public health interest. The article highlights the significance of international collaborations, such as the COVAX initiative, in addressing these challenges and ensuring access to affordable healthcare solutions. Finally, the article concludes by emphasizing the evolving nature of IPR in the context of COVID-19 and the need for continuous adaptation. It underscores the importance of striking a balance between promoting innovation and ensuring affordable access to life-saving technologies, medicines, and vaccines. The article aims to provide valuable insights into the development of IPR during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the ongoing discourse on intellectual property and public health. Keywords: IPR, Invention, Innovation, Covid-19, incentivization, licensing agreement.