PATENT-LAW FOR THE GROWTH OF INDIAN PHARMACEUTICAL-INDUSTRY

Outlining the genesis of the Indian Patents Act 1970, its relevance to Uruguay Round is described. Tbe shortcomings of this Act as measured against substantive standards or norms of intellectual property rights (IPR) are enumerated. It is argued that the shortcomings of the Act have a cumulative effect on obtaining patent protection for some products particularly foods, chemicals and drugs. Need to modify the Indian Patents Act 1970 in conformity with international standards is stressed. The arguments for and against this change are given. It is argued that a strong patent law will have impact not only on R&D and technology but will also open up new opportunities for export.