Prof Dr. Padmavati Manchikanti  | Intellectual Property | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur , India

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Padmavati Manchikanti’s intellectual journey began with a strong foundation in plant sciences and biotechnology. After completing her M.Sc. in Biotechnology in 1993 from the University of Hyderabad, she pursued a Ph.D. in Plant Sciences from the same university, awarded in 1999. Her doctoral work focused on plant biology, particularly plant secondary metabolites, laying the groundwork for her deep engagement with flavonoid biosynthetic pathways, enzyme analysis, and molecular biology. In a unique blend of tradition and science, she later pursued a Diploma in Sanskrit in 2024 from the Central Sanskrit University, furthering her interest in Traditional Knowledge (TK) and its cultural and legal protection. 🌿📚

👩‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Manchikanti has had a rich academic and professional trajectory that spans over two decades. She began her career in research as a Senior Scientist at Monsanto Research Center, Bangalore, focusing on agricultural biotechnology. Her transition into academia saw her play key roles at the Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law (RGSOIPL), IIT Kharagpur, where she rose from Assistant Professor to Dean. She also contributed as an Associate Faculty at the School of Energy Sciences, IIT Kharagpur. 🌾🧪

Her teaching portfolio includes a wide range of Intellectual Property (IP) law subjects such as Law of Patent-I & II, Patent Writing and Specification Drafting, IP Management and Technology Transfer, and Other Forms of IP Law including Geographical Indications (GI), Trade Secrets (TS), and Semiconductor Protection. She has also taught Biodiversity Law and Traditional Knowledge Protection, showcasing a truly interdisciplinary skillset. 👩‍⚖️📘

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Manchikanti’s research spans three major thematic areas:

1. Intellectual Property (IP)

She is trained in IP and has made significant contributions in areas such as patent drafting, patent search and mapping, invention disclosure filing, IP commercialization, and patent landscapes. Her research delves into bio-based drugs, IP regulation, competition law, and IP enforcement mechanisms, contributing substantially to both academic and policy discourses. 🧠💡

2. Biodiversity and Traditional Knowledge

A strong proponent of Biodiversity Governance, Prof. Manchikanti has worked extensively on the implementation of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 in India. Her focus includes traditional medicine, conservation objectives, and community rights under CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity) frameworks. Her projects with the West Bengal Biodiversity Board and ICSSR further underscore her dedication to livelihood sustainability through biodiversity conservation. 🌍🌺

3. Plant Biology

Her early academic focus on flavonoid biosynthesis in crops like maize, rice, and Basella spp., along with toxicity screening, HPLC analysis, and pathway database development, reflects a solid background in plant molecular biology and bioinformatics. 🌾🧬

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Manchikanti has been widely recognized for her contributions:

• 🏅 2023 – Most Powerful Women in IP – World Intellectual Property Forum

• 🏅 2009 – Microsoft Outstanding Young Faculty Award in IP for work on Traditional Knowledge (TK)

• 🧩 Recipient of the DST Fast Track Fellowship in 2005 for her work on phenylpropanoids and flavonoids

• 🎓 Course Coordinator for the DST-TIFAC Women Scientist Scholarship Scheme in IPR, empowering women in science and law

Her recognition reflects both national and international appreciation of her work. 🏆✨

🌍 Impact and Influence

With a career that intersects law, science, and policy, Prof. Manchikanti has left a deep impact on IP education, biodiversity policy, and scientific research. She has mentored 12 Ph.D. scholars, guided 17 LL.M. dissertations, and supervised ~40 Masters-level students, shaping future leaders in IP law and biotechnology. Her active participation in projects across ministries, ICSSR, CSIR, and international bodies illustrates her ability to bridge academia and applied research. 🌐🧑‍🎓

She has contributed to:

• 📌 Creation of IP databases

• 📌 E-commerce policy development in Ethiopia

• 📌 IP-based strategies for tribal cultural expressions

• 📌 GI registration projects and MSME-focused IP training

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Manchikanti stands at the intersection of intellectual tradition and modern legal frameworks. Her legacy is rooted in her commitment to protecting traditional knowledge, advancing women in science, and bridging the gap between innovation and regulation. She continues to push boundaries by exploring bioenergy inventions, drug regulation policies, and legal reforms in IP and biodiversity. 🌿⚖️

As Dean of RGSOIPL, she is not only leading academic programs but also shaping national discourse on IP rights, biodiversity conservation, and policy innovation. Her future contributions are likely to deepen India’s position in IP-driven innovation, traditional knowledge protection, and sustainable development. 🌏💼

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