VLB Janakiammal College of Arts and Science (Autonomous), Coimbatore, inaugurated the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC) 8.0 and the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Cell on 4th September 2025.
The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Srinivasan, Former Member Secretary, Tamil Nadu State Council for Science and Technology (TNSCST), Chennai.
It brought together eminent academicians, researchers, and policymakers to emphasize the importance of innovation, research, and intellectual property in the evolving educational and industrial landscape.
Kalaivani, Principal, delivered the presidential address, while the inaugural address was presented by Brindha, Director of Research and Academics, who highlighted the institution’s commitment to nurturing a research culture and entrepreneurial spirit among students.
The Chief Guest, in his address, underscored the transformative role of Intellectual Property Rights in fostering innovation and driving national development.
In his keynote address, Suresh Babuji, Joint Director, MSME DFO, Ministry of MSME, Government of India, Chennai, stressed the critical need for young entrepreneurs and researchers to leverage MSME schemes and IPR frameworks to create impactful enterprises.
The installation of IIC 8.0 and IPR Cell office bearers was formally conducted by Samson Dinakaran, President of the Council, and Karthik, Coordinator of the Cell. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Preetha, Coordinator of the Entrepreneurship Development Cell.
Technical Sessions:
Session One, led by Srinivasan, centered on “Significance of IPR and Its Innovation for Commercialization.” He emphasized how intellectual property not only safeguards innovation but also transforms it into economic assets, thereby strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem.
Session Two, handled by Suresh Babuji, shed light on “IPR Schemes and Assistance for MSME Development.” He elaborated on various government initiatives and support mechanisms available for entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of aligning start-ups and MSMEs with IPR protection to gain a competitive edge in domestic and global markets.
The final session, delivered by Preethi Narayanan, IP Consultant, Chennai, focused on “Tools for Patent Search and Copyrights.” She provided hands-on demonstrations of patent databases and search strategies, helping participants understand the nuances of identifying prior art and avoiding infringement.
Her session also highlighted the growing importance of copyright in digital platforms and content creation, encouraging participants to be both creators and protectors of intellectual assets.
