IIC: Intellectual Property Rights Awareness Program

On February 24, 2025, the All Student Mechanical Association in collaboration with the Institution Innovation Council (IIC) and IP Cell, hosted an impactful session titled INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS PROCESS OF INNOVATION DEVELOPMENT. The event was organized for mechanical engineering students of the Mechanical Engineering Department at Srinivas Institute of Technology (SIT), Mangaluru. The session aimed to empower students with knowledge about Intellectual Property Rights and its crucial role in safeguarding their innovative ideas and creations in today’s competitive world. The session, led by Prof. Jayaram Thumbe, Associate Professor in the Department of Marine Engineering at Srinivas Institute of Technology (SIT), provided an in-depth exploration of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Drawing from his extensive expertise, Prof. Jayaram introduced the fundamental concepts of IPR, emphasizing its role in legally protecting intellectual assets and fostering creativity and innovation. He explained the various types of intellectual property, including copyrights, patents, trademarks, and geographical indications (GI), detailing their importance in safeguarding creative works, inventions, brand identities, and region-specific products. Additionally, he covered trade secrets and measures to prevent unfair competition, giving students a comprehensive understanding of the scope and significance of IPR. A key highlight of the session was the practical activity where participants conducted prior art searches using platforms like Google Patents and the Indian Patent Database. This hands-on exercise allowed students to verify the originality of their ideas, identify existing patents, and understand the process of protecting intellectual assets. By bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, Prof. Jayaram demonstrated the importance of thorough research before pursuing a patent or launching a product. The session not only enhanced students' awareness of IPR but also equipped them with tools to innovate responsibly, preparing them for real-world challenges. The success of this session was made possible by the unwavering support and encouragement of Dr. Shrinivasa Mayya D, Principal of Srinivas Institute of Technology. His vision for fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking among students greatly contributed to the effectiveness of the program. The session also benefited from the active involvement and leadership of Dr. Shankar K S, Head of the Mechanical Department, who provided invaluable guidance throughout the event’s planning and execution. The event was meticulously coordinated by Dr. Raghavendra M J, Event Coordinator for IIC, and Prof. Sathyprakash, Staff Advisor of ASMA. Their dedication to organizing a seamless and enriching experience ensured the active participation of students and the overall success of the program.