Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Mar 28:
–PHD Chamber of Commerce of Industry with the support of the Office of the Development Commissioner MSME, Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India organized a two-day workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) at Hotel Radisson Blu, with the event being moderated by Kanchan Zutshi, Director, PHDCCI. Deputy Chief Minister, Sh. Surinder Chowdhary inaugurated the Two-Day Workshop, who explained the significance of intellectual property rights using global examples like Apple, KFC, and McDonald’s, showcasing how effective IP strategies contribute to worldwide success. He praised local entrepreneurs, particularly lavender farmers and Basmati rice producers, for their efforts in registering their brands. Taking a firm stance on industrial growth and employment, the Deputy CM addressed concerns over past governance, stating that while many industries were established in J&K, they failed to generate employment for local youth. He assured that his government will enforce policies ensuring local hiring and greater support for indigenous businesses.
The inaugural function was led by Sh. Rakesh Wazir, Chair, PHDCCI Jammu Chapter, who set the tone for the event, emphasizing the critical role of branding, innovation, and intellectual property protection in enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in Jammu & Kashmir. He highlighted PHDCCI’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering an ecosystem where businesses can thrive through effective IPR strategies.
He urged businesses to protect their intellectual property as a means of gaining a competitive edge, noting that branding and IP security are key to long-term success.
Sh. Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, J&K, provided an overview of government policies aimed at fostering industrial development. He emphasized that IPR can be a powerful tool for economic progress, urging businesses to invest in innovation and brand protection to create long-term value.
Sh. Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu, discussed the importance of IPR awareness among local businesses and stressed that IP protection can significantly contribute to sustainable industrial growth in the region. He also encouraged entrepreneurs to leverage government schemes designed to assist in patenting and trademark registration.
Dr. H.P. Kumar, Former CMD, NSIC, and Advisor, PHDCCI, spoke about the strategic importance of IPR in driving industrial growth, especially for MSMEs. Shri G. Velladurai, IEDS, DFO, MSME (UTs of J&K, Ladakh), shared key insights on government initiatives available to support small and medium enterprises in securing their intellectual property rights..
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Sh. Sham Lal Kesar, who expressed gratitude to the Deputy Chief Minister, distinguished dignitaries, and industry representatives for their valuable contributions. The National IP Yatra Programme, through this workshop, has set the stage for enhanced awareness, policy reforms, and proactive measures to strengthen the intellectual property framework in Jammu & Kashmir, paving the way for sustainable industrial and entrepreneurial growth in the region.
