Recently, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) made headlines when it attained patent registration for its groundbreaking Plastic-mixed Handmade Paper. This innovation aims to combat the growing crisis of plastic pollution. In the following sections, we will delve into the features of this novel invention, the specifics of patent registration, and a brief overview of KVIC and its initiatives.
Project REPLAN: A Stepping Stone Towards A Cleaner Future
The Plastic-mixed Handmade Paper is a recyclable and eco-friendly solution developed under Project REPLAN (REducing PLAstic from Nature). Launched in September 2018 as part of KVIC’s alignment with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, this project aimed at crafting carry bags by blending treated plastic waste and cotton fibre rags in a ratio of 20:80.
This pioneering project in India focuses on deconstructing, degrading, diluting, and integrating plastic waste with paper pulp in handmade paper production. With this, KVIC contributes towards reducing plastic waste and resonates with the Prime Minister’s call against single-use plastic.
The process also uses high and low-density waste polythene, which adds durability to the paper and reduces manufacturing cost by up to 34%. Products like carry bags, envelopes, files, and folders are being produced using this plastic mixed handmade paper.
Understanding Patent Rights
A Patent is a legal right granted by the government to inventors in return for their full disclosure of the invention. It empowers the inventor to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing the patented product or method without their consent.
In India, patent protection is governed by the Patents Act, 1970, along with amendments specified in the Patents (Amendment) Act, 2005, and the Patents Rules, 2003. Despite regular amendments in accordance with evolving scenarios, the most recent taking place in 2016, patent protection remains a territorial right, effective only within India.
Behind the Scenes: Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
KVIC is a statutory body established under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act, 1956. The planning, promotion, organisation, and execution of programmes for khadi and other village industries’ development in rural regions are tasks undertaken by KVIC. These activities are conducted in coordination with other rural development agencies when necessary, and KVIC functions under the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.
Major initiatives associated with KVIC include the ‘Honey Mission’ Project, Project BOLD, the Leather Mission, the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana, and Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana.
With their continuous endeavours, institutions like KVIC not only champion the cause of environmental conservation but also create sustainable employment, thus serving dual objectives. Their innovations, such as the Plastic-mixed Handmade Paper, underscore the value of combining innovation with environmental responsibility.
