Intellectual Property

5 UPSC Mains GS III questions on Intellectual Property, 2013 to 2024, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Intellectual Property toppers answered.

1. 2024 Q5What is the present world scenario of intellectual property rights with respect to life materials? Although, India is second in the world to file patents, still only a few have been commercialized. Explain the reasons behind this less commercialization.10 marks · 150 words
2. 2019 Q15How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?15 marks · 250 words
3. 2015 Q14India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), which has a database containing formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations is proving a powerful weapon in the country’s fight against erroneous patents. Discuss the pros and cons of making this database publicly available under open-source licensing.12.5 marks · 200 words
4. 2014 Q12In a globalized world, Intellectual Property Rights assume significance and are a source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms—Copyrights, Patents and Trade Secrets.12.5 marks · 200 words
5. 2013 Q13Bringing out the circumstances in 2005 which forced amendment to the section 3(d) in Indian Patent Law, 1970, discuss how it has been utilized by the Supreme Court in its judgement in rejecting Novratis’ patent application for ‘Glivec’. Discuss briefly the pros and cons of the decision.10 marks · 200 words

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.