Shoolini University Celebrates Fourth Innovation Day, Champions ‘One Student, One Patent’ Vision

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Shoolini University, a leading private research-focused institution in India, celebrated the fourth edition of its flagship event, Shoolini Innovation Day, on Tuesday. The annual event, spearheaded by the university’s Intellectual Property Rights Office (SIPRO), served as a vibrant platform to promote innovation, research, and intellectual property creation among students and faculty.

The central theme of this year’s celebration—“One Student, One Patent”—reaffirmed the university’s bold ambition to make intellectual property a defining element of academic excellence. With participation from across disciplines, the event emphasized Shoolini’s growing reputation as a hub of patent-driven research and startup incubation.

A Platform for Innovation and Recognition

The celebration brought together a wide array of stakeholders, including student innovators, faculty researchers, patent attorneys, and industry experts. A series of exhibitions, interactive sessions, and panel discussions highlighted pioneering research projects and patents filed by the university community.

In his opening remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Atul Khosla lauded the students and faculty for their contributions to India’s knowledge economy. “Innovation is not just a buzzword at Shoolini; it is part of our DNA. The ‘One Student, One Patent’ initiative aims to empower every learner to think beyond textbooks and contribute to real-world solutions,” he said.

SIPRO: Driving the IP Ecosystem

The Shoolini Intellectual Property Rights Office (SIPRO) has played a central role in facilitating the university’s rapid rise in patent filings. Through workshops, mentorship, and legal support, SIPRO has enabled students and researchers to navigate the complex terrain of intellectual property rights with confidence.

Over the past year, SIPRO has supported the filing of over 300 patents, spanning diverse areas such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental engineering, and artificial intelligence. Many of these patents have resulted from undergraduate and postgraduate research, reflecting a democratization of innovation on campus.

Students at the Forefront

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of student inventors whose work has already received patent grants or is in advanced stages of the application process. The stories of these students—ranging from low-cost water purification systems to AI-based medical diagnostics—offered a glimpse into the practical and socially relevant impact of their innovations.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Anuradha Sharma, Director of SIPRO, emphasized the importance of cultivating early IP literacy. “We are building a future where students see themselves as creators and protectors of knowledge. Our goal is to make patent filing as common as submitting a project report,” she stated.

Collaboration and Future Vision

The event also featured a roundtable discussion on the future of innovation in Indian universities, with participation from industry partners, government representatives, and IP professionals. Collaborations with startups, incubators, and technology transfer agencies were discussed as key enablers to take Shoolini’s patented innovations to market.

Concluding the event, Chancellor Prof. P.K. Khosla reiterated the university’s long-term commitment to IP-driven growth. “Innovation is the currency of the future. Our students must not only dream big but also protect and commercialize their ideas. This is how we will contribute to national development and global progress,” he remarked.

Building a Patent-First Academic Culture

As Shoolini University continues to climb national and global innovation rankings, Shoolini Innovation Day stands as a testament to its strategic investment in intellectual property. With the continued momentum of initiatives like “One Student, One Patent,” the university is poised to emerge as a model for academic institutions aspiring to lead in innovation, research, and IP commercialization.

Piyush Goyal Rejects Allegations of IPR Violations, Calls Them ‘Myths’ Without Basis

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India’s Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, firmly refuted recent claims of intellectual property rights (IPR) violations during a press interaction in Bern. Speaking to international media while attending high-level trade discussions in Switzerland, Goyal dismissed allegations of trademark, patent, and copyright infringement as “myths” lacking any concrete evidence.

“Show me one instance where we have illegally copied any trademarks, patents, or copyrighted technology. Not one has been presented,” Goyal said, responding to concerns raised by foreign industry lobbies and some international commentators. He emphasized that India is committed to a transparent and rules-based intellectual property ecosystem, and accused certain vested interests of perpetuating outdated stereotypes.

Defending India’s Innovation Landscape

Goyal highlighted that India has made significant strides in strengthening its IPR regime in line with global standards. “India respects innovation and creativity. Our patent laws, copyright enforcement, and trademark regulations are fully TRIPS-compliant,” he asserted, referring to the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights.

The Minister also pointed to India’s growing contributions to global innovation, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, information technology, and green energy. He underscored India’s role in providing affordable healthcare and technology solutions to the developing world without compromising intellectual property norms.

Countering Protectionist Narratives

Goyal’s remarks come at a time when some developed nations have expressed concerns about alleged misuse of patented technologies and trademarked products by Indian manufacturers. Industry associations from Europe and North America have, in the past, accused Indian firms of reverse-engineering Western products.

In response, Goyal stated that such criticisms often ignore the spirit of open innovation and are rooted in protectionist agendas. “We will not allow unfounded allegations to undermine India’s reputation. We follow due process, encourage licensing arrangements, and promote indigenous R&D,” he added.

Emphasis on Fair Global Trade

The Minister reiterated India’s commitment to fair global trade practices and called on international partners to engage constructively. He also mentioned India’s recent initiatives to streamline patent processing, strengthen copyright adjudication, and enhance awareness among startups and MSMEs regarding intellectual property.

India’s efforts to foster a culture of innovation have been recognized by global indices. The country ranked 40th in the Global Innovation Index 2023, its highest-ever position, marking a steady climb in recent years.

Looking Ahead

As India continues to integrate into global value chains and negotiates trade agreements with partners such as the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Goyal’s strong defense of India’s IPR framework sends a clear message. It underscores New Delhi’s resolve to challenge what it sees as unfair narratives while promoting a robust and equitable innovation environment.

“Let’s move past assumptions and work towards genuine partnerships,” Goyal concluded, calling on stakeholders to recognize India not just as a manufacturing hub, but as a responsible player in global intellectual property governance.

Kerala University Secures Patent for Eco-Friendly Solar Cell Technology

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In a significant stride toward sustainable energy solutions, the University of Kerala has secured a patent for an innovative eco-friendly solar cell technology. This pioneering development stems from a collaborative effort between the University’s Departments of Physics and Botany, working under the aegis of its Translational Research and Innovation Centre (TRIC-KU).

The patented technology represents a new generation of photovoltaic cells that utilize biodegradable, plant-based materials in place of conventional, environmentally hazardous components. According to university officials, this approach not only reduces the ecological footprint of solar panel production but also enhances affordability and efficiency, especially in tropical regions like Kerala.

A Synergistic Research Model

The breakthrough underscores the success of interdisciplinary collaboration. While the Department of Physics focused on the structural and energy conversion aspects of the solar cells, the Department of Botany contributed crucial insights into the biological materials used to replace synthetic polymers and toxic metals typically found in conventional photovoltaic systems.

“This is a proud moment for Kerala University and a testament to what can be achieved when scientific disciplines converge with a shared purpose,” said Dr. R. S. Suresh, Director of TRIC-KU. “Our aim was to create a clean energy solution that aligns with both ecological and economic sustainability, and this patent is a validation of our vision.”

Technology Rooted in Nature

The solar cells developed by the research team incorporate organic dyes extracted from native plant species as photosensitizers, replacing the more commonly used but environmentally detrimental synthetic chemicals. These natural dyes absorb sunlight and initiate the photoelectric conversion process, mimicking the way plants conduct photosynthesis.

Additionally, the researchers have replaced rare and expensive materials like platinum and ruthenium with easily available carbon-based and bio-derived alternatives, further reducing the cost and environmental impact of production.

Towards Commercialization

With the patent now secured, Kerala University is actively exploring partnerships with clean tech companies and government agencies to commercialize the product. Pilot installations are already being planned across select university campuses and rural community centers in the state, in a bid to test scalability and real-world performance.

Dr. Asha Menon, lead researcher from the Department of Botany, emphasized the broader potential of the technology. “This innovation goes beyond academic achievement. It’s a tangible step toward democratizing access to renewable energy, particularly in resource-constrained settings where cost and environmental considerations are paramount.”

Institutional Push for Innovation

This development is the latest in a series of achievements under the University’s Translational Research and Innovation Centre, which was established to bridge the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications. TRIC-KU aims to transform fundamental research into market-ready technologies, with a special focus on sustainability, health, and energy.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohan Kumar congratulated the research team and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering innovation. “Securing this patent places Kerala University on the global map of green technology research. It also aligns with India’s broader mission to transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.”

Looking Ahead

As climate change accelerates and the world turns increasingly toward renewable energy, Kerala University’s eco-friendly solar cell technology offers a beacon of innovation rooted in local knowledge and global relevance. The institution hopes this patent will pave the way for further research into nature-based solutions that blend science, sustainability, and social impact.

Russia Patents Groundbreaking Technology to Launch Automatic Spacecraft from Orbital Station

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In a bold step toward space autonomy and robotic exploration, Russia has secured a patent for a revolutionary technology that will enable the automatic launch of spacecraft from an orbital station, marking a significant advancement in the country’s space capabilities. The innovation also aims to establish the world’s first drone platform in space, maintained by robotic systems, laying the groundwork for sustained lunar exploration and deep-space missions.

The announcement was made following a high-level briefing by First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov to President Vladimir Putin, where Manturov underscored the strategic importance of the new technology for Russia’s long-term space goals. He confirmed that the Russian Orbital Station (ROS) will serve as the testing ground for this cutting-edge system, which forms a core component of the nation’s roadmap to build and operate its own orbital infrastructure independent of the International Space Station (ISS).

A New Era in Space Autonomy

The patented technology envisions a fully automated launch platform in orbit, capable of deploying unmanned spacecraft with minimal human intervention. This system will integrate a fleet of space drones supported by onboard robotic maintenance units, enabling frequent missions for satellite deployment, cargo transport, orbital repairs, and planetary reconnaissance.

According to official sources, this innovation could dramatically reduce the logistical burdens and costs associated with launching spacecraft from Earth-based platforms. By establishing a modular launch capability in orbit, Russia aims to boost mission flexibility, especially for low-gravity operations near the Moon and in cis-lunar space.

“The use of robotic systems for servicing a space-based drone platform is a breakthrough for orbital logistics and planetary exploration,” said a senior Roscosmos engineer involved in the project. “We are talking about a platform that can maintain itself and autonomously prepare vehicles for launch — a key to future interplanetary missions.”

Strategic Transition to the Russian Orbital Station (ROS)

Deputy Prime Minister Manturov reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving a planned module-by-module transition to the Russian Orbital Station by 2030. The ROS project, a flagship venture of Russia’s post-ISS strategy, is being developed to ensure sovereign space operations, scientific research, and commercial missions without reliance on international partnerships.

The ROS will serve as both a testing and operational base for the newly patented drone launch technology. It is designed to support a variety of payloads, robotic systems, and automated modules that can dock, refuel, and redeploy without human crew present.

President Putin, during the meeting, emphasized the need to fast-track technological self-sufficiency in space, particularly in light of growing geopolitical tensions and evolving global competition in lunar exploration. The initiative is also seen as a direct response to U.S. and Chinese plans to establish lunar bases and orbital platforms of their own.

Implications for Lunar Missions

Officials from Roscosmos have confirmed that the automatic launch platform will play a central role in Russia’s lunar exploration strategy, including future robotic landers, orbiters, and sample-return missions. The modularity and autonomy of the system make it ideal for assembling and dispatching spacecraft aimed at the Moon’s surface and potentially beyond.

Industry analysts suggest that this development could enable Russia to conduct more frequent, lower-cost lunar missions, including support for the long-anticipated Luna-27 and Luna-28 programs, and even collaborative efforts under BRICS or Eurasian space initiatives.

Global Significance

If successfully implemented, Russia’s orbital drone platform could represent the first of its kind in space history, introducing a new paradigm where maintenance, assembly, and launch of spacecraft are entirely managed by machines in orbit.

“This is not just about a patent—it’s about redefining space logistics,” said Dr. Elena Kurbatova, a space policy analyst at the Moscow Institute of Aviation and Space Law. “The implications for space commercialization, planetary defense, and autonomous exploration are immense.”

Looking Ahead

While technical challenges remain — particularly in AI coordination, robotic reliability, and orbital resource management — Russia’s commitment to transitioning to the ROS by 2030 indicates a determined effort to reshape its role in the global space race. The country’s growing portfolio of space patents and its investment in autonomous systems signal an era of strategic innovation driven by long-term exploration goals.

As the ROS begins to take shape and tests commence in the coming years, all eyes will be on Russia to see whether it can turn this ambitious vision of robotic spaceflight and in-orbit autonomy into a reality.

DrivebuddyAI Awarded Patent for Advanced Driver Drowsiness Detection Technology

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Indian deep-tech startup DrivebuddyAI has been granted a patent for its driver drowsiness detection system, a major milestone in the company’s mission to enhance road safety through artificial intelligence and computer vision. The patented innovation uses advanced machine learning algorithms to detect signs of fatigue in drivers, aiming to reduce road accidents caused by human error.

The patent, titled “System and Method for Real-time Detection of Driver Drowsiness Using AI”, was awarded by the Indian Patent Office in recognition of DrivebuddyAI’s novel approach that combines real-time video analytics with physiological behavior modeling. The technology analyzes visual cues such as eyelid closure rate, head movement, yawning frequency, and eye-gaze patterns to detect signs of fatigue or microsleep in drivers.

Bridging the Gap in Road Safety

Founded in 2018, DrivebuddyAI has been working at the intersection of automotive safety and AI. The startup’s technology is already being used in commercial fleets, transport companies, and driver training centers across India and Southeast Asia. With the grant of this patent, DrivebuddyAI now holds exclusive rights to commercialize its drowsiness detection system in India, giving it a competitive edge in the rapidly growing AI-powered mobility sector.

“Getting the patent is a strong validation of our innovation and the years of research that went into building this technology,” said Prateek Chauhan, CEO and Co-founder of DrivebuddyAI. “Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of road fatalities worldwide. Our solution helps address this problem in real-time by alerting the driver and the fleet operator before a mishap occurs.”

How the Technology Works

Unlike traditional systems that rely on wearable sensors or steering input, DrivebuddyAI’s approach is entirely non-intrusive. A camera installed inside the vehicle’s cabin monitors the driver’s facial features and behavioral indicators. Using deep neural networks trained on thousands of hours of driving data, the system generates fatigue alerts when certain thresholds are crossed.

The system is also integrated with DrivebuddyAI’s broader telematics platform, enabling fleet managers to view drowsiness reports, analyze risk profiles, and implement proactive safety measures.

Alignment with Government Goals

The patent award comes at a time when both the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and NITI Aayog have emphasized the need for technology-based interventions to reduce India’s high rate of road accidents. According to government statistics, driver fatigue contributes to nearly 20% of highway accidents.

Industry experts see DrivebuddyAI’s patented solution as a timely innovation that aligns with India’s push for intelligent transport systems (ITS) and safer roads under initiatives like Bharat NCAP and the National Road Safety Policy.

Future Plans

With the patent secured, DrivebuddyAI plans to further refine the technology and expand its application to ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and autonomous driving modules. The startup also aims to enter global markets, particularly in the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia, where demand for fleet safety solutions is rapidly increasing.

The company is currently in talks with OEMs and tier-1 suppliers to embed its AI modules in upcoming commercial and passenger vehicles.

About DrivebuddyAI

DrivebuddyAI specializes in AI-powered driver monitoring systems (DMS), video telematics, and behavior analytics aimed at making roads safer and fleets smarter. The company has raised funding from angel investors and is supported by industry partners including NVIDIA and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

How India’s Evolving Patent Law Transformed Its Pharma Industry from Generics to Innovation Powerhouse

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India’s pharmaceutical landscape has undergone a seismic transformation over the past two decades, evolving from a generics powerhouse to a burgeoning hub for global research and development (R&D). Central to this shift has been the country’s evolving patent regime—particularly the changes ushered in by the Patents (Amendment) Act, 2005—which reshaped industry strategies, attracted global collaborations, and propelled Indian companies onto the global innovation map.

A Generics Legacy Rooted in Policy

Until the early 2000s, India’s pharmaceutical industry thrived on the back of a legal framework that permitted the manufacture of generic versions of patented drugs through a process patent regime. Introduced by the Indian Patents Act of 1970, this approach enabled Indian firms to reverse-engineer drugs and develop cost-effective alternatives, making life-saving medicines affordable domestically and in developing countries worldwide.

By the late 1990s, Indian pharmaceutical companies like Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and Ranbaxy had become synonymous with generic drug manufacturing, supplying affordable antiretrovirals during the global HIV/AIDS crisis.

WTO Obligations and the 2005 Patent Shift

India’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995 came with commitments under the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement. A critical requirement was to transition to a product patent regime, granting stronger intellectual property protection for pharmaceuticals.

The watershed moment came with the Patents (Amendment) Act, 2005. The Act introduced product patents for pharmaceuticals, thereby aligning India’s patent laws with TRIPS. The legislation marked a paradigm shift—no longer could Indian firms freely replicate patented drugs without licensing.

However, the amendment also included critical public interest safeguards. Section 3(d) of the Act, for instance, disallowed patents on “incremental innovations” unless they showed enhanced efficacy. This clause became pivotal in landmark cases such as Novartis v. Union of India, where India’s Supreme Court denied patent protection to the cancer drug Glivec in 2013.

The R&D Pivot

With limitations on reverse engineering, Indian pharma companies began investing more heavily in original drug discovery and innovation. The post-2005 environment incentivized a shift from pure generics manufacturing to novel drug development, biosimilars, and proprietary research.

Companies like Sun Pharma, Biocon, and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals ramped up their R&D budgets and established global partnerships to tap into advanced therapeutic areas such as oncology, biologics, and immunotherapy. India’s Contract Research Organizations (CROs) also gained prominence, supporting global pharma firms with clinical trials and drug development services.

The government reinforced this innovation-centric approach by launching schemes like the Pharmaceutical Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS) and strengthening IP awareness through initiatives under the National IPR Policy (2016).

Global Collaborations and Patent Filings Surge

India’s R&D-driven strategy yielded tangible results. According to the Indian Patent Office, pharma-related patent applications by Indian entities have grown steadily, with a 2.3x increase between 2015 and 2023. Multinational companies, recognizing India’s scientific talent and cost efficiencies, expanded R&D collaborations and opened innovation centers in cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.

Moreover, Indian pharmaceutical innovators have gained recognition in advanced markets. Biocon’s approval for biosimilars in the US and EU, and Zydus Cadila’s development of India’s first DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, ZyCoV-D, stand as testament to the country’s growing scientific capabilities.

Balancing Innovation and Access

Despite this transition, India continues to balance innovation with public health needs. Compulsory licensing provisions and the continued application of Section 3(d) ensure that patent rights do not come at the cost of affordable healthcare. Critics from the global pharmaceutical lobby often view these safeguards as hurdles to innovation, but public health advocates argue they are necessary for equitable access.

The Road Ahead

India’s pharmaceutical evolution is far from complete. With 6G connectivity, AI-driven drug discovery, and personalized medicine on the horizon, the next frontier for Indian pharma will likely involve deep tech and cross-disciplinary innovation. Government initiatives like the Bulk Drug Parks and the PLI (Production-Linked Incentive) Scheme for pharmaceuticals are expected to accelerate this transformation.

India’s patent law has not merely redefined legal boundaries; it has charted a new course for the pharmaceutical industry—one where affordable medicine and cutting-edge innovation can, and must, coexist.

Garmin Files Patent for Smartwatch with Non-Invasive Blood Sugar Monitoring Technology

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Garmin, a leading name in GPS and wearable technology, has filed a new patent that could significantly advance the future of digital health. The patent outlines a non-invasive blood glucose monitoring system integrated into its smartwatches, aiming to offer users a pain-free, continuous glucose tracking solution without the need for traditional finger-prick tests.

The innovation centers around light-based sensors, commonly referred to as photoplethysmography (PPG) or spectroscopy techniques, to analyze glucose levels through the skin. According to the patent documents, the smartwatch would emit specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and detect variations in blood composition, including glucose concentration.

A Game-Changer in Glucose Monitoring

This development could be especially impactful for people managing diabetes or prediabetes, offering a convenient, non-invasive method for tracking blood sugar levels throughout the day. Unlike current continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that typically require a sensor to be inserted under the skin, Garmin’s solution could eliminate the need for consumables or invasive procedures.

The system is expected to provide long-term trends and insights, allowing users to better understand how their lifestyle, diet, and activity levels affect their glucose metabolism. This aligns with Garmin’s broader strategy of expanding its health and wellness capabilities, reinforcing its position in a growing market that increasingly demands wearable-based health diagnostics.

Potential Capabilities Highlighted in the Patent

The patent describes the integration of a multi-sensor array capable of filtering out noise from other biological signals, such as heart rate or hydration levels, thereby improving the accuracy of glucose detection. The device could also work in tandem with Garmin’s suite of fitness metrics—like heart rate variability, sleep patterns, and stress monitoring—to deliver a comprehensive health profile.

While no official release timeline has been shared, Garmin’s entry into the blood glucose monitoring space reflects the broader trend of convergence between consumer electronics and medical diagnostics. Apple, Samsung, and several health tech startups have also been exploring similar non-invasive technologies, but commercial viability and clinical accuracy remain key challenges.

Regulatory and Market Implications

If Garmin’s device meets regulatory standards for accuracy and reliability, it could disrupt the global glucose monitoring market, currently valued at over $15 billion. Non-invasive solutions are considered the “holy grail” of diabetes care due to the convenience and user compliance they offer.

Experts suggest that Garmin may initially roll out the technology as a wellness feature before seeking FDA or CE approval for medical-grade use, a common approach in wearable health innovations.

Looking Ahead

Garmin’s patent marks a significant step forward in the evolution of smartwatches from fitness accessories to comprehensive health monitoring tools. As the race to develop non-invasive glucose tracking heats up, the company’s engineering strength and credibility in sensor technology may give it a competitive edge.

While the technology is still in the developmental stage, its potential to improve quality of life and promote preventive healthcare is immense, signaling a promising shift in the wearable tech landscape.

Hyderabad Cardiologist’s Groundbreaking Cardiac Device Wins US Patent

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In a significant advancement for cardiac healthcare, an innovative medical device developed by Hyderabad-based pediatric cardiologist Dr. Nageswara Rao Koneti has been granted a United States patent. The invention, named the **KONAR-MF Occluder**, is designed to treat a wide range of congenital and acquired heart defects, making it a potential game-changer in cardiology worldwide.

Dr. Koneti, who leads the Cardiology Division at Rainbow Children’s Heart Institute in Hyderabad, spent over six years developing the KONAR-MF (Multi-Functional) Occluder. The device is engineered to close septal defects—abnormal openings in the heart—found in both children and adults.

At the heart of this innovation lies a **double umbrella disc structure** crafted from **nitinol**, a nickel-titanium alloy known for its flexibility and biocompatibility. The device is designed to be stretchable up to 15 mm, enabling it to adapt to varying defect sizes and shapes during minimally invasive procedures.

“This device can treat multiple complex cardiac conditions, including ventricular septal defects (VSDs), coronary arteriovenous fistulas, and paravalvular leaks,” said Dr. Koneti.

The KONAR-MF Occluder has already been recognized internationally. It holds patents in India, Europe (under the European Commission), several Euro-African countries, and South Korea. The addition of a U.S. patent not only underscores the global relevance of the device but also opens the door for broader clinical application and commercialization in North America.

Cardiologists often face challenges when dealing with complex septal defects due to the varying anatomical presentations and the need for precision closure to avoid complications. The KONAR-MF Occluder’s flexible and adaptive design seeks to address these clinical challenges by offering a reliable, minimally invasive solution.

“This is not just a win for me personally but a step forward for Indian medical innovation,” Dr. Koneti stated. “Our goal was to create a single device that could serve multiple purposes in cardiology, especially in regions where access to advanced medical infrastructure is limited.”

The device has already shown promising results in clinical trials, and further studies are being planned to evaluate long-term outcomes and expand its indications. With the U.S. patent secured, Dr. Koneti and his team hope to collaborate with global manufacturers and healthcare providers to bring this device into widespread use.

As congenital heart disease remains one of the most common birth defects globally, innovations like the KONAR-MF Occluder offer hope for safer, more effective treatments—especially in resource-limited settings. The global cardiology community will be watching closely as this device begins its journey into mainstream cardiac care.

BITS Law School Launches Centre for Research on Innovation Law for Shared Prosperity (CRISP); Hosts Inaugural Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship Conference

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In a significant step toward fostering inclusive and future-oriented legal research, BITS Law School has announced the establishment of its Centre for Research on Innovation Law for Shared Prosperity (CRISP). The announcement was made during the inaugural conference of the Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship, held at the BITS Pilani Mumbai Campus.

The launch of CRISP marks a strategic move by BITS Law School to advance interdisciplinary research at the intersection of law, innovation, and equitable development. With India emerging as a global hub for technology and innovation, CRISP aims to explore how legal frameworks can support inclusive and sustainable progress.

The inaugural conference served as both a ceremonial and scholarly beginning for the Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship program. Distinguished legal scholars, industry leaders, policymakers, and research fellows convened to deliberate on how legal systems can evolve in response to rapid technological change while ensuring societal welfare.

Driving Innovation Through Law

Speaking at the event, Founding Dean of BITS Law School, Dr. Rishad Chowdhury, emphasized the role of CRISP in bridging the gap between legal theory and real-world policy challenges. “CRISP is not just a research centre; it is a catalyst for systemic transformation. Our goal is to equip policymakers and institutions with evidence-based insights that help balance innovation with justice, equity, and prosperity for all,” he said.

The centre will prioritize research in areas such as intellectual property, digital governance, biotechnology regulation, climate change law, and access to innovation in marginalized communities. Its core objective is to promote shared prosperity by making legal innovation inclusive and accessible.

Fellowship Program to Build Legal Talent for the Future

The Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship, launched in tandem with CRISP, seeks to nurture emerging legal thinkers committed to reimagining law for the innovation economy. The competitive fellowship offers early-career scholars an opportunity to engage in rigorous research under the mentorship of senior faculty and collaborate with national and international institutions.

Keynote addresses at the conference were delivered by prominent figures in the legal and technology sectors, including Justice (Retd.) Srikrishna, known for his pioneering work in data protection law, and Dr. Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairperson of the India Digital Innovation Council. Their talks highlighted the urgent need for agile, responsive legal frameworks in the age of AI, data, and decentralized technologies.

A Vision for Inclusive Legal Futures

Participants at the conference discussed pressing challenges such as regulatory sandboxes for startups, innovation gaps in rural India, and global frameworks for equitable technology transfer. Panel sessions featured academics from top law schools, representatives from think tanks, and innovation-focused NGOs.

The event concluded with a roadmap presentation by the CRISP leadership team, outlining upcoming research themes, collaborative projects, and policy engagement initiatives.

About BITS Law School

Established under the aegis of the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), BITS Law School is a modern, interdisciplinary institution committed to reshaping legal education and policy-making in India. With CRISP now a part of its expanding research ecosystem, the law school reinforces its mission to contribute meaningfully to society through impactful legal research and advocacy.

As India navigates complex technological and societal shifts, the creation of CRISP positions BITS Law School as a thought leader in developing a legal infrastructure that promotes both innovation and equity.

KGMU Secures Design Patent for Innovative Infant Feeding Tube Uro Bag Connector

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King George’s Medical University (KGMU) has achieved a significant milestone in pediatric healthcare innovation with the recent grant of a design registration patent for its newly developed Infant Feeding Tube (IFT) Uro Bag Connector. This novel device is designed to streamline the process of urine collection in newborns, a procedure that has historically posed considerable difficulties for healthcare professionals.

The patent, which was officially filed in February 2025, recognizes the unique design and utility of the connector developed by KGMU’s Department of Pediatrics in collaboration with biomedical engineers. The device enables the attachment of a standard adult uro bag to an infant feeding tube, thereby creating a secure and hygienic pathway for collecting urine from neonates.

Hospital officials highlighted that until now, urine collection in infants has remained a problematic area in clinical practice due to the lack of compatible systems. Traditional methods were not only cumbersome but also increased the risk of contamination and inaccuracies, often leading to repeated attempts and discomfort for the baby.

“The innovation addresses a longstanding gap in pediatric care,” said a senior KGMU pediatrician involved in the development. “Our design ensures a snug and sterile connection between the infant feeding tube and the uro bag, facilitating easier, safer, and more efficient urine collection.”

The device’s simplicity is one of its standout features. It eliminates the need for improvisation with existing equipment, which often led to unreliable setups and increased the burden on medical staff. With this connector, practitioners can now use readily available uro bags in a controlled and secure manner, reducing both procedural time and infection risks.

Officials from KGMU also emphasized the broader implications of the device, particularly in rural and resource-constrained healthcare settings. Since the connector utilizes components already commonly available in most hospitals, its adoption does not require additional infrastructural investment.

“This invention is not just a technological solution; it’s a step toward equitable and effective neonatal care,” said a spokesperson for the university’s innovation cell. “It exemplifies how simple yet thoughtful designs can transform clinical outcomes.”

The patent grant marks another feather in the cap for KGMU, which has been steadily expanding its footprint in medical research and innovation. The university is now exploring partnerships with manufacturers to produce the IFT-Uro Bag Connector at scale and make it widely accessible across healthcare institutions in India and potentially beyond.

With the successful patent registration, KGMU plans to initiate training modules and awareness campaigns to familiarize healthcare workers with the device, ensuring its effective integration into routine pediatric care.