Abstract

TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE DIGITAL LIBRARY (T.KD.L) - UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHT (I.P.R)

Dr. Sahil Mahajan*, Dr. Rosy Gupta, Dr. Roushani Kalia and Dr. Sanchita

.

Abstract

The Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) is a database tool to understand the codified knowledge existing for the Indian systems of medicine i.e., Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Yoga as prior art. Its most important role is the prevention of misappropriation of Traditional Knowledge (TK). TKDL is a dynamic database, where formulations are continuously added, and it is continuously updated according to the inputs from the users of the database. Intellectual property (IP) is a term referring to a number of distinct types of expressions for which a set of rights are recognized under the corresponding fields of law. Ayurvedic compounds and formulations must be shelled and protected under the umbrella of IPR before they are introduced in the market. TKDL Access Agreement is unique in nature and has in-built safeguards on Non-disclosure to protect India’s interest against any possible misuse.

Keywords: TKDL, Traditional Knowledge, Intellectual property rights, Ministry of AYUSH, Ayurveda, Biopiracy.