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RKD NewsNet July 2024

From the desk of Dr. Mohan Dewan | Assisted by: Adv. Arjun Pradhan Adv. Shubham Borkar

RKD NewsNet July 2024

1 Cover Story
CGPDTM Announces Dates for 2025 Trademark and Patent Agent Exams
2 Newsflash
Draft Trade Marks (Holding Inquiry and Appeal) Rules, 2024
3 Analysis
Understanding the Power of Endorsements: From Celebrity Signatures to Royal Seals
4 Thread Bare
A View from Afar: The Role of Humans in AI-Generated Inventions: Lessons from the DABUS Patent Case
5 IP Updates
Litigation Updates
6 Spotlight
Hidden Gems of India: Bhandardara: A Paradise Burrowed in The Sahyadris
7 Snips and Specs
IPR Quiz For Those Who Don’t Know Everything
8 RKDecodes
Decoding Delicious Delicacies: Gulab Jamun
Cover Story
CGPDTM
Announces Dates
for 2025
Trademark and
Patent Agent
Exams
The Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM) on July 2, 2024 has notified the 2025 Patent and Trademarks Agent Exams. As per the circular, the Trademark Agent Exam is likely to be held on January 04, 2025 and
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Cover Story
the Patent Agent Exam is likely to be held on January 5, 2025. The exams will be organized in 13 locations such Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur and Thiruvananthapuram.

As stated in the Notification no. CGPOTM-1402011012021-CGOFFICE/14, the exams will be organized by the CGPDTM and both exams will be conducted in 2 sessions of 2 hours (objective type) and 3 hours (descriptive type) respectively. The mode of application for the exams is online and the registrations are open from July 08 (12 noon) to August 08 (05.30 PM).

The accompanying guidelines to the notice give other relevant information about the registration process, issuance of admit cards, nature of the written examinations, and importantly the syllabi for the exams. The syllabus for the Trademarks Agent Exam is - Trade Marks Act, 1999 & Trademarks Rules, 2017(as amended) & matters related to IP Jurisprudence. For the Patent Agent Exam, the syllabus is the Patents Act, 1970, the Patents Rules, 2003, the Designs Act, 2000 and the Designs Rules, 2001 & Matters related to IP Jurisprudence.

For any query related to the Trademarks Agent Exam, an email can be sent to trademarkagtexam.tmr@gov.in., and for a query related to the Patent Agent Exam, an email can be sent to patentagentexam.ipo@nic.in.
Newsflash
Draft Trade Marks (Holding Inquiry and Appeal) Rules, 2024
On July 01, 2024, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) issued the Draft Trade Marks (Holding Inquiry and Appeal) Rules, 2024 through a Notification no. - G. S. R. 362 (E).

The following has been stated namely:
  • It states that any person shall file a complaint in Form-I through electronic means to an adjudicating officer.
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  • It states that the adjudicating officer shall complete the proceeding within three months from the issuance of the notice to the opposite party.
     
  • It states that the appeal process involves filing Form III electronically within sixty days of the adjudicating officer's order, followed by respondent's reply upon notice issuance, and concluding with a reasoned order by the appellate authority after hearing, potentially adjourning, typically within sixty days of appeal receipt.
     
  • It states that all communications under these rules shall be transmitted through electronic means only.
     
  • It states that the orders under these rules shall be dated, digitally signed, communicated to all parties, uploaded on the official website of Intellectual Property India, and all penalties collected shall be credited to the Consolidated Fund of India.
The Objections or suggestions, if any, with respect to these draft rules shall be taken into consideration till August 01, 2024, and may be sent by post to "the Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi-110001", or email at: ipr4-dipp@nic.in
Newsflash
UNDERSTANDING THE POWER OF ENDORSEMENTS: FROM CELEBRITY SIGNATURES TO ROYAL SEALS
In the realm of advertising, endorsements play a crucial role in influencing consumer behaviour. This article delves into the various forms of endorsements, culminating in the prestigious realm of Royal Warrants bestowed by the British Royal Family.
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Analysis
A Spectrum of Endorsements
Personality rights simply put are rights that give individuals the power to control how their name, picture, likeness, or voice etc. is used. This enables individuals to stop others from using these personal details in ads, products, or other business activities without permission of the owner. An individual can gain the right of publicity through their association with an event, sport, movie, and similar activities. However, this right does not extend to the event that made the individual famous or to the corporation that organized the event. These rights are often associated with the broader right to privacy and are recognized through various legal frameworks and judicial pronouncements. However, it has been noticed that different jurisdictions have adopted varied approaches to personality rights. Some treat them as a single right covering both commercial and non-commercial aspects, while others view them as separate rights.

Endorsements come in a multitude of forms, each catering to a specific marketing strategy:
  1. Celebrity Endorsements: A ubiquitous presence, celebrities leverage their fame and positive associations to promote a brand. Imagine a renowned athlete endorsing a sports apparel brand or a musician vouching for a specific headphone company.
     
  2. Influencer Endorsements: The rise of social media has fostered a new breed of endorsers – influencers. These individuals cultivate substantial followings online, allowing them to promote products or services directly to their audience. An influencer endorsement might involve a social media post showcasing a product or a detailed video review. Companies targeting specific demographics can find influencers who resonate with their ideal customer base.
     
  3. Athlete Endorsements: Athletes, with their dedication and peak physical condition, can effectively endorse products relevant to their sport. A famous soccer player endorsing the shoes they wear on the field, for instance, can inspire fans to follow.
     
  4. Trade Organization Endorsements: Trade organizations, representing specific industries or professions, can lend credibility to a product by offering their endorsement. A company selling dental hygiene products, for example, might seek endorsement from the Indian Dental Association IDA), signifying the product's safety and effectiveness.
     
  5. Product User Endorsements: The voices of everyday consumers hold value as well. Real people using and sharing their experiences with a product can be powerful endorsers. This can take the form of written testimonials, social media posts, or video reviews – all offering authentic perspectives to potential buyers.
     
  6. Professional Association Endorsements: Similar to trade organizations, professional associations representing specific professions can connect a product with a particular demographic.
     
  7. Safety Board Endorsements: Safety board endorsements can be particularly valuable for products like cosmetics, toiletries, and food items. Consumers are more likely to trust and purchase products endorsed by organizations focused on safety standards.
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Analysis
The importance of personal and intelle
However, amidst this spectrum of endorsements, one stands out as a unique mark of distinction – the Royal Warrant of Appointment. Issued by the British Royal Family since the 15th century, a Royal Warrant signifies that a brand has consistently supplied goods or services to a member of the Royal Family for at least five years. This signifies exceptional quality and service that meet the high standards of the Royal Household.

A Legacy Steeped in History:
The tradition of Royal Warrants stretches back centuries, evolving alongside the concept of royal patronage. Initially bestowed upon artists, the system transitioned to Royal Charters in the 12th century, granting privileges to trade guilds. By the 15th century, the Royal Warrant emerged as a more formalized system, with the Lord Chamberlain appointing tradespeople as suppliers to the Royal Household. One of the earliest recipients was William Caxton, the king's printer in 1476.

A Signal of Quality:
A Royal Warrant served as a powerful public statement. It conveyed that the holder supplied goods deemed worthy of the Royal Household, implicitly inspiring consumer confidence. In an era where product quality was a concern, a Royal Warrant offered a reliable marker of value. By the 18th century, manufacturers recognized the power of this endorsement, even offering products at reduced prices to secure the coveted Royal Warrant and the associated publicity.

Modern-Day Significance:
Today, Royal Warrants remain a highly sought-after distinction. Companies holding a Royal Warrant are permitted to display the Royal Arms on their products and marketing materials. This potent symbol, recognized worldwide, instantly elevates brand perception. It conveys a sense of tradition, luxury, and excellence, setting the brand apart from competitors.
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Analysis
The Path to Royal Recognition:
The process of acquiring a Royal Warrant is not one of formal application. Brands with a long- standing history of supplying the Royal Household are nominated by the Royal Household Tradespeople's Warrant Committee. This committee meticulously evaluates the brand's quality, service, and reputation before a Warrant is granted by a member of the Royal Family.
A King's Seal of Approval:
In conclusion, endorsements serve as a cornerstone of marketing. While various forms exist, the Royal Warrant stands out as an unparalleled symbol of prestige. It's a testament to a brand's unwavering commitment to quality and a mark of trust valued by consumers worldwide. For a fortunate brand, the Royal seal of approval unlocks a world of advantages, solidifying its position as a purveyor.

Liabilities of Endorser
Celebrity endorsements hold immense influence over consumer behaviour. It's essential to hold celebrities accountable for the products they endorse for several reasons:

Protection of Consumers
  • Misleading Advertisements: Celebrities can inadvertently or intentionally mislead consumers about product quality or benefits. Liability ensures that they are responsible for false claims.
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Analysis
  • Endorsed by a celebrity is found to be harmful, consumers expect recourse, and holding the celebrity accountable can deter such incidents.
Maintaining Ethical Standards
  • Public Trust: Celebrities are role models. Holding them liable for misleading endorsements upholds ethical standards in advertising.
  • Industry Accountability: Imposing liability on celebrities encourages careful product selection and due diligence, improving overall advertising practices.
Deterrence
  • Financial Consequences: The risk of financial penalties can deter celebrities from endorsing products without proper scrutiny.
  • Reputation Damage: Negative publicity from legal actions can harm a celebrity's image and career
Fair Competition
  • Level Playing Field: Holding celebrities accountable prevents unfair advantage for businesses using such celebrity endorsements to make misleading claims.
By imposing liability on celebrity endorsers, we create a system where consumers are protected, ethical standards are upheld, and the advertising industry operates fairly.

The Supreme Court has tightened the reins on misleading advertisements. In a recent case Indian Medical Association v. Union of India involving Patanjali Ayurved, the court emphasized the accountability of both advertisers and endorsers.
Thread Bare
A View from Afar: The Role of Humans in AI-Generated Inventions: Lessons from the DABUS Patent Case
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Justice Manmohan Singh of the Delhi High Court has remarked in a judgment, “The world is a global village.” This sentiment captures the essence of our interconnected era, where globalization and interconnected markets continually redefine our world. Today, the judgments handed down in courtrooms across the globe can have far- reaching consequences and the ripples of these legal decisions extend far beyond their local jurisdictions, influencing economies and industries worldwide.

Welcome to "A View from Afar," a series dedicated to examining international judgments and their far-reaching impacts. Through this series, we aim to bridge the gap between diverse legal systems and their global repercussions, offering you a panoramic view of the intricate interplay between law and commerce.

We will delve into landmark rulings from various corners of the world, unpacking the legal reasoning behind such decisions and scrutinizing their practical implications. Each article will provide a thorough analysis, shedding light on how these judgments affect not only the parties directly involved but also affect the regulatory frameworks, corporate strategies, and market dynamics on a global scale.

Whether it is a judgment delivered in the United States or the European Union, we will share our views on its profound impact in other jurisdictions navigating through the labyrinth of international jurisprudence.

Join us in this further instalment of "A View from Afar" as we delve into the nuances of the landmark decision, passed by Germany's highest civil court, the Bundesgerichtshof, that elucidates several pivotal principles concerning AI-generated inventions and their eligibility for patent protection. The key takeaways are as follows:
  1. The decision underscores that even in instances where an invention is generated by artificial intelligence, there is invariably a human presence that exerts a decisive influence on the invention's creation. This human element is essential and irreplaceable in the process.
     
  2. The ruling makes it clear that the type of influence exerted by the human is of no consequence. Whether the contribution is inventive or non-inventive, what matters is the existence of the human involvement.
     
  3. The decision recognises that the human being who has exerted his or her influence must be identified and formally designated as the inventor. This requirement ensures that the legal framework for intellectual property which recognizes that human agency in the creation of an invention even when facilitated by AI is acknowledged.
     
  4. The decision affirms that inventions generated with the assistance of AI can indeed qualify for patent protection, provided that a human contributor is identified as the inventor however small his or her role in creating the invention may be. This aspect of the ruling is particularly significant as it paves the way for recognizing and protecting AI-facilitated inventions under existing patent laws.
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Thread Bare
This decision resolves a split between German federal appellate courts, which had previously issued conflicting rulings on the matter and stems from the case involving a lunchbox design created by an AI system known as DABUS (Device for Autonomous Bootstrapping of Unified Sentience), invented by Stephen Thaler. The applicant filed a patent application October 17, 2019. Claim 1 of the application was formulated as follows:
  • A food or beverage container comrising:
  • A wall defining an inner chamber of the container, the wall having inner and outer surfaces and being of substantially uniform thickness;
  • wherein the wall has a fractal profile with corresponding convex and concave fractal elements on corresponding elements of the inner and outer surfaces; and whereby the convex and concave fractal elements form depressions and elevations in the profile of the wall.
An embodiment example was depicted in axial cross-section in Figure 1.

The inventor designation on the official form indicated that the invention was independently created by the artificial intelligence system, DABUS. The patent office rejected the application after prior notice, on the grounds that only a natural person could be named as the inventor. This led the applicant to file an appeal against the decision.
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During the appeal proceedings, the applicant primarily requested that the aforementioned inventor designation be allowed with the addition "c/o Stephen L. Thaler, PhD." However, the patent office rejected the applicant's auxiliary requests. In his third auxiliary request, the applicant sought the following amendment: “Stephen

L. Thaler, PhD, which prompted the artificial intelligence DABUS to generate the invention.” The Patent Court set aside the decision of the Patent Office and referred the case back to the Patent Office, stipulating that the designation of the inventor pursuant to auxiliary request 3 was to be recognized as having been filed in due time and form.

With its appeal on points of law admitted by the Patent Court, the President of the Patent Office sought to have the decision set aside insofar as the granting of the appeal. The applicant opposed this and pursued his claims rejected by the Patent Court with an interlocutory appeal. The President opposed this appeal, justifying its decision by stating that, according to the current legal situation, only natural persons, and not machines, may be named as inventors. The decision to recognize the inventor's status with the right to be named ("inventor's honour") implies that, under German law, an artificial intelligence cannot be named as an inventor or co-inventor.

Subsequently, this case was pursued by the Artificial Inventor Project, which initiated a series of pro bono legal test cases seeking intellectual property rights for AI- generated output in the absence of a traditional human inventor or author in various jurisdictions, including Germany.

The Bundesgerichtshof (Germany's highest civil court) held that an AI-generated invention is protectable under German patent law. The Court emphasized that the involvement of AI in generating the invention does not justify the rejection of the patent application. According to the Court, as long as a natural person is named as the inventor, the invention can be patented thus ensuring that, such inventions are eligible for patent protection in Germany. This decision stands in contrast to jurisdictions like the United States and the United Kingdom, where AI-generated inventions are not considered patentable unless a natural person makes a substantial contribution to the invention.

This ruling has significant implications for the international debate on the ownership and protection of AI-generated inventions. Different jurisdictions have varying stances on AI-generated inventions. South Africa made headlines in 2021 by issuing the first patent with AI listed as the inventor, followed by an initial ruling in Australia that allowed AI to be listed as an inventor. However, the Australian ruling was later overturned, and the High Court declined to review the case. In contrast, the European Patent Office (EPO), the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia have consistently rejected patent applications listing AI as the inventor.
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This decision is a pivotal development in the ongoing international debate regarding the ownership and protection of AI-generated inventions and suggests an alternative solution to this issue. While it brings clarity within Germany, it adds complexity to the global discourse on intellectual property rights concerning AI-generated outputs. Additionally, the ruling does not resolve questions about AI inputs, such as the use of existing codes by AI systems like GitHub Copilot, which recently faced legal scrutiny in the United States.

The German Federal Patent Court’s earlier decision, which the recent ruling has now overturned, stated that AI systems could not be designated as inventors. The Court emphasized the concept of the "inventor's honor” i.e. a public recognition of one's inventorship, which it argued did not apply to AI systems. However, the Federal Court of Justice has now clarified that while an AI system cannot be the inventor, the use of AI in the inventive process does not invalidate a patent application as long as a natural person is named as an inventor.

This decision has significant implications for the future of AI in innovation. It encourages transparency regarding the involvement of AI in the inventive process and ensures that AI-generated outputs are protectable under patent law. The ruling is particularly crucial for industries relying on AI for developing new technologies, drugs, and industrial components. Notably, the US Congress is currently contemplating changes to its patent laws to keep pace with advancements in AI.

This case and the facts surrounding it, prompted me to analyse the implications of the same with respect to the Indian patent landscape and consider the key takeaways & reforms necessary in the Indian patent laws to accommodate the realities of AI-generated inventions.

In India, the patent landscape is governed by the Patents Act, 1970, which stipulates that an inventor must be a "true and first inventor" and a natural person. This poses a challenge when considering the patentability of AI-generated inventions, as current Indian laws does not explicitly recognize AI as an inventor. However, the German ruling can serve as a profound and precedent-setting stance on the intersection of artificial intelligence and intellectual property law for Indian policymakers in re- evaluating and potentially updating the existing patent laws to address the emergence of AI-generated inventions.

The crux of the matter is that for any AI-generated invention, there must be a human exerting a decisive influence on its creation. This influence is a requisite, irrespective of its nature, which means it need not be inventive or involve creative ingenuity.
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Furthermore, irrespective of the human contribution being minimal or procedural; what matters is the presence of a human element and that only with the identification and designation of a human as the inventor can an AI-generated invention qualify for patent protection.

This is because a human is essentially the one who provides the necessary guidance to the AI system through prompts, enabling it to produce the desired output. Furthermore, it is the human who refines and improves upon the AI-generated output, ultimately inventing the final invention, including drafting of the specification.

The ruling in this judgement has highlighted the traditional view that patents are legal instruments designed to recognize and reward human ingenuity. By insisting on a human inventor, the Bundesgerichtshof has ensured that the legal framework remains anchored to its foundational principles, despite the advent of advanced technologies capable of autonomous invention. This decision is poised to have far- reaching implications, as it balances the need to embrace technological advancements with the imperative to uphold the human-centric nature of intellectual property law.
IP Updates
Litigation Updates
Bombay HC grants interim relief to Pidilite Industries Ltd.; restrains Dubond Products India Pvt. Ltd. from using marks “LW” and “LW+”

The plaintiff sought an order of injunction restraining the defendant from infringing its “LW” and “LW+” registered trademarks and for which necessary relief had been sought viz. for injunction restraining infringement of trade mark, copyright, and passing off of the plaintiff’s registered trademarks by the impugned marks of the defendant viz. LW with or without the marks HYDROBUILD or HYDROTITE and/or Power. The Court opined that the defendant’s use of the impugned mark “LW” with “HYDROBUILD POWER” and/or “HYDROBUILD” incorporated therein, would prima facie amount to an infringement of the plaintiff’s registered trade mark “LW” as the impugned marks had encompassed the whole of the plaintiff’s “LW” mark. Thus, the Court restrained the defendant from using the plaintiff’s marks “LW” and “LW+”.
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Ordinary common man will be confused’; Bombay HC grants ad-interim injunction to Glenmark Pharmaceuticals for mark “ZITA-MET” against Gleck Pharma’s mark “XIGAMET”

The Court held that the ad-interim injunction sought by plaintiff, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., in respect of defendants’, Gleck Pharma (OPC) Pvt. Ltd. mark was required to be granted as the word mark “XIGAMET” of defendant was phonetically and structurally similar to the word mark “ZITA-MET” of plaintiff and the two marks were used on medicinal products and there could be no doubt that there was a probability of confusion in respect of both these marks.
‘Enough grounds to demonstrate that urgent relief was contemplated’; Bombay HC dismissed an application seeking rejection of plaint on non-compliance of S.12A of Commercial Courts Act

The present application was filed by the defendant seeking rejection of the plaint filed by the plaintiff for trade mark infringement. The Court observed that the fact that more than eight years had elapsed between September 2015 to August 2023, could not be a ground to ipso facto conclude that the plaintiff could not contemplate urgent interim reliefs. In the present case, the plaintiff provided details of the manner in which the defendant refuted the plaintiff’s rights, despite registered trademarks in the plaintiff’s favor and in that context, the plaintiff had indeed contemplated urgent interim relief while filing the present suit.
Delhi High Court upholds refusal of patent for Portable Vehicle Management System due to lack of novelty

An application was filed challenging the refusal of Indian Patent Application for the ‘PORTABLE VEHICLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM’ (‘subject patent application’) issued by the Assistant Controller of Patents & Designs on 27-12-2018 (‘the impugned order’), asserting that the subject patent does not meet the inventive step requirement as stipulated under Section 2(1) (ja) of the Patent Act, 1970 (‘the Act’). The Court held that the claimed invention lacks an inventive step, therefore, the patent office’s decision to reject the application under Section 2(1) (ja) of the Patents Act, 1970, is justified and should be upheld.
‘No interim injunction for appeal filed at eleventh hour’; Delhi High Court dismisses application challenging “Yakshini” video adaptation by Disney+Hotstar
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IP Updates
In an application filed for seeking temporary injunction for restraining defendant 1 and anybody on their behalf from commercializing the video adaptation in the television series of “Yakshini” on their website or on any other audio, video adaptation based substantially similar to the plaintiff’s work “Yakshini” on any other third-party media websites, The Court held that the similarity of name cannot be the sole criteria, especially as it was a mythological character on which admittedly various works, movies and books are already available. Prima facie, there was nothing to reflect as copyright violation of expression of idea as asserted by the plaintiff.
Spotlight
Hidden Gems of India: Bhandardara: A Paradise Burrowed in The Sahyadris
Welcome to a journey of discovery and wonder as we embark on a series of blogs that unveil the enigmatic and uncharted realms of India. In a country as vast and diverse as India, the troves of hidden gems and lesser- known marvels remain scattered like secrets waiting to be unravelled. Beyond the renowned landmarks and bustling metropolises, lie the hidden places that encapsulate India's rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Our series of blogs is your passport to a world where ancient temples, forgotten caves, serene lakes, and mystical forests come to life. Join us as we delve deep into the heart of this incredible nation, shedding light on the obscure, the mystical, and the rarely explored corners of India. Each blog will be a portal to these hidden treasures, offering insights, anecdotes, and practical tips for those intrepid travellers and culture enthusiasts who seek the extraordinary and the untraded paths that India has to offer. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and enthralled as we unveil India's hidden wonders, one blog at a time.
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Spotlight
Bhandardara, also known as Wilson Dam, is a captivating hill station nestled amidst the majestic Sahyadri Mountains, the crown jewel of Maharashtra, India. Renowned for its serene beauty, salubrious climate, and historical significance, Bhandardara offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. The hill station's name itself evokes a sense of mystery and hidden treasures.
Etymology:
While the exact origin remains unclear, some believe it stems from "Bhandara," meaning "Treasury," hinting at the region's abundant natural riches. Another theory suggests the name comes from "Bhandara Darwaza," translating to "Gateway to the Treasury," signifying the scenic gateway formed by the mountains cradling the plateau on which Bhandardara is perched.

History:
Bhandardara boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The British Raj, in its quest to expand irrigation networks across India, embarked on the construction of the Wilson Dam on the Pravara River in 1910. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Arthur Crawford Wilson, a Bombay Presidency engineer, was instrumental in creating the Bhandardara Lake – a vital source of irrigation for the surrounding Deccan Plateau regions.
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Spotlight
The dam's construction not only transformed the agricultural landscape but also played a role in shaping Bhandardara into a popular hill station. The lake's serene waters and the surrounding hills' natural beauty attracted visitors seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Over time, Bhandardara developed into a charming hill retreat, offering a unique blend of historical significance and captivating natural beauty.

A Haven for Nature Lovers
Bhandardara's verdant landscape is a paradise for nature lovers. Lush green meadows carpeted with wildflowers unfurl during the monsoon, transforming the landscape into a vibrant beauty. Cascading waterfalls, like the Randha Falls, plunge down rocky cliffs, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The crystal-clear waters of Bhandardara Lake are ideal for boating, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquillity of nature from a unique perspective. Hiking and trekking enthusiasts can embark on scenic trails that weave through the Sahyadri ranges, offering breathtaking landscapes of the valleys and forests below. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse range of avian species that call the Sahyadris home. From vibrant peacocks and elusive eagles to colourful songbirds, the skies above Bhandardara come alive with a symphony of chirps and calls.

Places to Visit
  • Wilson Dam: A marvel of engineering, the dam offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and the lake it impounds. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam to learn about its history and construction or simply admire the panoramic vistas from the dam's crest.
  • Bhandardara Lake: This picturesque lake, formed by the Wilson Dam, is a popular spot for boating. Paddle boats, motorboats, and even houseboats are available for rent, allowing visitors to explore the lake's tranquil waters at their own pace.
     
  • Ratangad Fort: Perched atop a plateau overlooking the lake, the historic Ratangad Fort offers a glimpse into the region's past. The fort, believed to have been built by the Maratha Empire in the 17th century, is in ruins but still offers a sense of its former grandeur. For the adventurous, trekking to the fort provides a challenging yet rewarding experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape as the reward.
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Spotlight
  • Randha Falls: Cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery, the Randha Falls are a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the cool water spray. The falls are particularly spectacular during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the pool at the base of the falls or simply relax on the rocks and listen to the soothing sounds of the cascading water.
     
  • Arthur Lake: Nestled amidst verdant forests, Arthur Lake is a haven for peace and relaxation. The lake's serene atmosphere is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape from the crowds. Visitors can enjoy activities like birdwatching, nature walks, or simply picnicking on the shores of the lake.
A break from the mundane is what Bhandardara summons with its alluring natural beauty, rich history, and exciting adventures. Whether you are a nature enthusiast seeking serenity amidst cascading waterfalls and vibrant meadows, a history buff yearning to explore the remnants of ancient forts, or an adrenaline junkie craving trekking trails and water sports, Bhandardara caters to every kind of traveller.
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Snips & Specs
IPR Quiz
A. Which international organization is responsible for the administration of the Madrid System for the international registration of Trademarks?
    1. World Trade Organization (WTO)
    2. United Nations (UN)
    3. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
    4. European Union (EU)
B. What does the term "Patent pending" indicate on a product or invention?
    1. The Patent has been granted and is in effect
    2. The Patent application is pending approval from the Patent Office
    3. The Patent has expired
    4. The invention is not eligible for Patent protection
C. Which international agreement provides protection for literary and artistic works, including books, music, and paintings, among member countries?
    1. Paris Convention
    2. TRIPS Agreement
    3. Berne Convention
    4. Madrid Protocol
D. Which international treaty sets the standards for the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights, including Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights, and is administered by the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
    1. Paris Convention
    2. Madrid Protocol
    3. Berne Convention
    4. TRIPS Agreement
 

(Answers at the end of the Newsletter)

For Those Who Don't Know Everything
- Provided by my good friend, Philip Furgang.
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RKDecodes
Decoding Delicious Delicacies: Gulab Jamun
When it comes to food, the name of a dish holds meaning beyond just identification. The name of a dish can give insight into the history behind it, the ingredients used, or even the cultural significance it holds. In this series of blogs, we will explore the history behind famous Indian dishes.

Only a few Indian sweets are as iconic as “gulab jamun”. These melt-in-your-mouth dumplings, soaked in a fragrant syrup, are a staple at celebrations and a joyous indulgence across the country. But beyond their deliciousness, “gulab jamun” boasts a rich history that intertwines with cultural exchange and culinary innovation.

The etymology of the word “gulab jamun” reveals it’s fascinating origins. 'Gulab' is derived from the Persian words 'Gol' meaning flower and 'Ab' meaning water, a clear reference to the rosewater-scented syrup that imbues the dessert with its characteristic fragrance. The second word, 'jamun,' is a Hindi-Urdu term for the black plum, a fruit native to India that shares the “gulab jamun’s” round shape and compact size. Thus, the name aptly reflects the dessert's key ingredients and visual characteristics.
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RKDecodes
The exact origin of “Gulab Jamun” is shrouded in delicious mystery, with stories attributing its creation to various regions and eras. Legends trace it back to ancient Persia, where a dish called "Luzunat al-Wuzara" (Minister's Delight) is said to be an early ancestor. This delicacy is believed to have been a deep-fried dumpling soaked in a honey-based syrup, flavoured with rose water and nuts. Another theory suggests “Gulab Jamun” originated in the Mughal kitchens of medieval India, where chefs experimented with reducing rose water and sugar to create a sweet syrup for deep-fried dumplings. Some also suggest that “Gulab Jamun” was first prepared by the personal Persian chef of Shah Jahan but there is no evidence to support this.
Mughal cuisine was known for its richness and use of aromatic spices, and “Gulab Jamun” perfectly embodies these characteristics. Regardless of its birthplace, “Gulab Jamun” undoubtedly flourished under Mughal rule, becoming a favourite dessert enjoyed by royalty and commoners alike.
Over centuries, “Gulab Jamun’s” recipe evolved as it spread across different regions. Traditionally made with khoya (milk solids), variations emerged using ricotta cheese, bread dough, or even semolina. The syrup, originally infused with rose water, adopted local flavours like cardamom, saffron, and kewra water. This regional diversity showcases the adaptability of “Gulab Jamun”, transforming itself to suit local tastes and ingredients.
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The Judge's Sweet: A Testament to Culinary Skill
Making perfect “Gulab Jamun” is an art form that requires patience and precision. The key lies in crafting a smooth dough, traditionally made by kneading milk solids (khoya) with flour and a touch of semolina. Any lumps or cracks in the dough will translate into imperfections in the final Jamun. The right consistency is achieved through gentle kneading, ensuring the dough is pliable yet not sticky. Once shaped into perfect a cylinder with two hemispherical ends, the “Gulab Jamuns” are carefully lowered into hot ghee or oil. Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. An ideal temperature allows for an even consistency, resulting in golden brown dumplings with a crisp exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. Finally, the cooked “Gulab Jamuns” are immersed in a fragrant sugar syrup, flavoured with cardamom, saffron, and of course rose water. Perfectly cooked “Gulab Jamuns” will have plumped significantly, boasting a wrinkle- free surface and a glistening syrup coating. This is how the most traditional and simple “Gulab Jamun” is prepared. Making them a testament to the cook's skill and a true labour of love.

Indian Variants
“Gulab Jamun” typically presents in shades of brown. The brown coloration arises from the caramelization of the milk solids and sugars within the sweet, contributing to its delectable flavour and visually appealing appearance. Some regional variations incorporate sugar directly into the dough, resulting in a deeper black hue upon frying due to the caramelization of sugar. These black variants are known as Kala Jamun that have a bitterish-sweet taste.

The Bengali variant “Pantua” closely resembles the traditional “Gulab Jamun”. In contrast, Rajasthan offers a unique twist with “Gulab Jamun” ki Sabzi, where the sweet dumplings are not immersed in sugar syrup but rather cooked in a flavourful gravy of nuts and tomatoes.

Beyond Borders: A Global Delicacy
Today, “Gulab Jamun” transcends its Indian origins to find a cherished place on dessert menus around the world. From classic Indian restaurants to innovative fusion kitchens, “Gulab Jamun’s” influence is undeniable. Modern pastry chefs have incorporated its flavours into an array of delectable desserts, from “Gulab Jamun” ice cream to donut variations infused with rosewater and cardamom. Even beverage menus are not immune to its charm, with “Gulab Jamun” martinis and cocktails offering a playful twist on this beloved sweet. But at its core, “Gulab Jamun’s” enduring popularity lies in its simplicity. In every bite, one can taste the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic Indian dessert, a journey from ancient kitchens to modern tables, a testament to the enduring power of sweet indulgence.

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JULY 2024
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