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Geographical Indications and Indian Traditional Knowledge System (Bharatiya Paramparik Gyan): Safeguarding Biodiversity and Legal Frameworks

Tanumay Panda
Ph.D. Scholar at the University of Burdwan, West Bengal, India & Assistant Professor at Kalna College, West Bengal, India
E-mail: professortpanda@gmail.com

Published online: 13th February, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.52756/rpktbc.2025.e01.002

Keywords: Traditional Knowledge System (TKS), Indigenous Rights, Biopiracy, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Equitable Benefit-Sharing, Herbal and Mineral Resources, Participatory Development, Patent Controversies, Cultural Heritage Preservation

Abstract:

Multinational corporations frequently exploit remote areas’ herbal and mineral resources, relying on traditional knowledge systems while providing minimal compensation to local communities. This practice significantly loses indigenous and rural communities’ rich understanding of the natural world, deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. Traditional knowledge systems (TKS) are often marginalized in favour of Western scientific approaches, which, when applied indiscriminately, can lead to unsustainable resource use and biodiversity loss. The lack of recognition and integration of TKS raises critical ethical concerns regarding the violation of indigenous and human rights. Despite these challenges, a growing global interest in incorporating TKS into participatory development approaches has emerged. National institutions and international organizations, such as WIPO and UNESCO, have tried to protect and promote TKS through legal frameworks and conventions like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). However, the absence of a universally accepted framework leaves TKS vulnerable to exploitation and biopiracy. High-profile cases such as turmeric, neem, and Hoodia highlight the challenges associated with biopiracy, where patents are granted for traditional knowledge that is already in the public domain. Legal interventions and strong intellectual property frameworks are crucial to ensuring that indigenous communities receive fair benefits from the commercialization of their knowledge. The case of J.C. Bose, who missed recognition for his invention due to the absence of patents, underscores the need for strategic protection of traditional technologies. Addressing these concerns requires collaborative international efforts, inclusive policymaking, and robust legal measures. Protecting traditional knowledge ensures the preservation of cultural heritage, equitable benefit-sharing, and the sustainability of biodiversity in a globalized world.

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Revisiting the Past Knowledge Tradition of Bharat: A Critique (Volume-1)

How to Cite
Tanumay Panda (2025). Geographical Indications and Indian Traditional Knowledge System (Bharatiya Paramparik Gyan):
Safeguarding Biodiversity and Legal Frameworks. © International Academic Publishing House (IAPH), Dr. Rajiba lochan Mahapatra, Dr. Arpan Das and Dr. Somnath Das (eds.), Revisiting the past knowledge tradition of Bharat: A critique
(Volume 1), pp. 09-30. ISBN: 978-81-978955-6-2
doi: https://doi.org/10.52756/rpktbc.2025.e01.002

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