The Value of Traditional Knowledge in India: Challenges and Opportunities for Equitable Access and Benefit Sharing

ABSTRACT

It is impossible to overstate the importance of the traditional knowledge that indigenous tribes and other local peoples possess in a variety of fields including agriculture, medicine, the preservation of food and yields, architecture and conservation of biodiversity. However, the groups that genuinely possess this knowledge usually receive a relatively small number of benefits from the exploitation of this information. This study takes a look at two instances of Indian laws and policies meant to protect indigenous knowledge systems. These laws and policies include the Biological Diversity Act and the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library. Investigations into access and benefit-sharing strategies take into account the importance of intellectual property rights as well as the idea of equitable and fair benefit distribution. In India, ensuring equal access to traditional knowledge and sharing of benefits arise out of the use of traditional knowledge, has both potential benefits and potential challenges, which are investigated in this study. The research investigates the challenges associated with documentation, providing informed consent, and distributing benefits that crop up during the operationalization of these frameworks. By analyzing previous instances of success and failure, the report presents a number of potential strategies that could be utilized in India to improve the identification, protection, and equitable application of traditional knowledge. The findings are beneficial for decision-makers, academics, and communities that are dedicated to encouraging equitable access and benefit sharing, and they add to the conversation that is now taking place regarding the preservation of traditional knowledge.

FULL TEXT