Expert's Perception on Technology Transfer and Commercialization, and Intellectual Property Rights in India: Evidence from Selected Research Organizations

Abstract

Technology transfer (TT) and commercialization is useful to develop new technology, innovation, device, design and product in manufacturing sector. TT and commercialization are essential drivers to create tech-based start-ups, entrepreneurship ecosystem, employment, new market, and increase output, productivity, efficiency and growth of manufacturing sector. However, TT and commercialization from research institutions to industries is relatively lower in developing economies as compared to developed countries. In these economies, researchers and scientists have insignificant understanding on intellectual property rights (IPRs) and its positive implication in manufacturing sector, and legal provision and procedures for utilization of IP protected technology in industrial filed. Therefore, this study provides the progress of IPRs in India during 2006–2007 to 2018–2019. Thereupon, it detects the opinion of 120 experts on TT and commercialization and IPRs. These experts were selected from 40 reputed research organizations of India. Research organizations were applying contractual agreements, licensing for limited time period, agreements with technology seekers and mutual contract for TT and commercialization in. Thus, this study claimed that most research organizations do not have a formal and uniform process for TT and commercialization. Appropriate estimation of economic values of existing technology and innovation are difficult in research organizations. Therefore, Indian research organizations could not nurture a conducive ecosystem to increase TT and commercialization, and business-oriented association with manufacturing firms. This study provides barriers of TT and commercialization in research organizations. Accordingly, several policy proposals were given to resolve existing issues in TT and commercialization, and IPRs in Indian research organizations.