In an era where intellectual property (IP) is a crucial asset for businesses worldwide, the role of skilled legal professionals in safeguarding these rights has never been more significant. As industries innovate rapidly, the complexities surrounding patents, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, energy, and chemicals, demand expertise that can navigate both legal intricacies and scientific advancements. Leading this charge at ANAND AND ANAND is Vidisha Garg, a seasoned partner with over twenty years of experience in high-stakes patent matters.
Vidisha’s extensive expertise encompasses patent prosecution, opposition, and litigation, as well as strategic advisory services for clients facing contentious proceedings. She has successfully represented numerous clients regarding pivotal drug molecules, including Lapatinib, Valganciclovir, Tygacil, Dolutegravir, and Lorcaserin. Her academic background in chemistry—comprising a M.Sc. (Organic Chemistry) and an LLM, along with an LLB—underpins her unique ability to merge scientific understanding with legal strategy.
As a member of the EPO’s Standing Advisory Committee and the Executive Committee of the AIPPI India group, Vidisha is committed to advancing IP practices and providing strategic guidance on biodiversity and traditional knowledge issues. Her mission is clear: to empower clients to protect and leverage their intellectual property rights, ensuring they can achieve their business objectives in a competitive landscape.
Bridging Science and Law in Intellectual Property
Vidisha is a dynamic professional with a unique blend of expertise in both Organic Chemistry and Law, holding dual postgraduate degrees from the University of Lucknow. As a registered patent agent, she leverages her scientific knowledge and legal acumen to navigate the complexities of intellectual property rights in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. Admitted to the bar in 2010, Vidisha has been instrumental in helping clients protect their innovations through her comprehensive understanding of patent law.
Prior to joining ANAND AND ANAND, Vidisha built a solid foundation as an academician and researcher in the field of Synthetic Organic Chemistry. Her tenure at prestigious institutions such as the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) and the University of Lucknow provided her with invaluable insights into the intricacies of chemical research and development. This strong scientific background equips her with a unique perspective that enhances her ability to address complex legal challenges in the realm of intellectual property.
With her dual expertise, Vidisha is well-positioned to provide strategic guidance to clients, ensuring their innovations are not only protected but also positioned for commercial success in a competitive landscape.
Expertise in Intellectual Property Law
Vidisha’s extensive experience in the field of intellectual property law is highlighted by her representation of clients in various pre-grant and post-grant patent opposition matters. She is adept at navigating the complexities of patent revocation cases before the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB), where her expertise has been pivotal in several high-profile cases.
One of her notable contributions includes her involvement in the Tykerb revocation matter, which marked a significant milestone as India’s first New Chemical Entity (NCE) revocation case. In addition, Vidisha played a crucial role in the Tygacil patent opposition, where she addressed critical issues related to Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, ultimately contributing to the granting of a patent for a reformulated drug.
Vidisha has also been an active member of the team handling the landmark Eisai matter, a case that clarified complex questions surrounding species and genus patents. This landmark ruling enables innovator companies to secure an initial patent for breakthrough technologies while subsequently obtaining species patents that fall within the coverage of the first patent, thus enhancing their competitive edge in the market.
In her practice, Vidisha regularly represents clients before the Indian Patent Office, showcasing her proficiency in presenting cases effectively. Her areas of expertise extend to providing comprehensive opinions and strategic advice on patent laws in India, drafting patent specifications, conducting patent searches, and offering insights on validity, patentability, and infringement opinions.
Clients also rely on Vidisha for her knowledgeable guidance on protecting national biodiversity and for her insights into IP asset management and IP licensing. Her multifaceted approach ensures that clients are equipped with the necessary strategies to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of intellectual property law, making her a trusted advisor in the field.
An Accomplished Author and Speaker
Vidisha is not only a seasoned intellectual property attorney but also an accomplished author and speaker, contributing her expertise to various prestigious publications, including Managing Intellectual Property, World Intellectual Property Review (WIPR), and LSIPR. Her articles reflect her deep understanding of the intricacies of intellectual property law and its implications for businesses and innovators. Additionally, she has authored research papers in the field of chemistry, published in internationally recognized journals, showcasing her ability to bridge her scientific background with legal expertise.
A regular speaker at national and international conferences, including events organized by AIPPI, Vidisha shares her insights on the evolving landscape of intellectual property rights. Her presentations not only highlight current trends and challenges but also provide actionable strategies for industry professionals and academics alike.
Vidisha is deeply committed to spreading awareness about intellectual property rights and fostering a culture of innovation and scientific inquiry. She actively conducts workshops, webinars, and certificate courses on intellectual property rights for various stakeholders, including judiciary members, enforcement agencies, and students at schools and universities. These initiatives are often held in collaboration with respected government and industry bodies such as CIPAM, INTA, TIFAC, BIRAC, and ICAR. Through her outreach efforts, Vidisha aims to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of intellectual property, ultimately contributing to a more innovative and legally informed society
Raising Awareness about Intellectual Property Rights
Vidisha is an active member of several prestigious professional organizations that reflect her commitment to the field of intellectual property law. Her affiliations include:
- AIPPI (International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property)
- FICPI (International Federation of Intellectual Property Attorneys)
- AIPLA (American Intellectual Property Lawyer’s Association)
- APAA (Asia-Pacific Attorneys Association)
- International Bar Association
- Bar Council of Delhi (India)
These memberships not only enhance her professional network but also keep her at the forefront of developments in intellectual property law, enabling her to provide informed and effective counsel to her clients.
In addition to her professional commitments, Vidisha is dedicated to community involvement and outreach. She actively participates in workshops and programs aimed at raising awareness about intellectual property rights, particularly in the context of patents. Her efforts are focused on sensitizing various stakeholders, including startups, SMEs, judiciary members, researchers, academics, and students, about the importance of intellectual property.
Vidisha is closely involved with organizations such as TIFAC (Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council) under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Through these partnerships, she contributes to training programs for scientists, local communities, and aspiring patent agents, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of intellectual property rights. Her commitment to education and awareness-building plays a vital role in fostering a more informed and innovative ecosystem in India.
Recognitions for Academic and Professional Excellence
Vidisha’s academic and professional achievements are a testament to her expertise and commitment to the field of intellectual property rights.
Academic Excellence
- Gold Medalist in Organic Chemistry: Vidisha graduated from the University of Lucknow with a gold medal, reflecting her outstanding performance and dedication to her studies.
- CSIR-UGC NET Junior Fellowship: She has qualified for this prestigious fellowship, showcasing her proficiency in the subject and her potential for research and academic contributions.
- Recipient of TIFAC Scholarship: Awarded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, this scholarship facilitated her training in intellectual property rights, further enhancing her skill set in this critical area.
Professional Recognition
- ASIAIP Expert: From 2013 to 2019, Vidisha was nominated as an expert in ‘Patent Prosecution’ and ‘Pharma & Biotech’ by the Asia-Pacific Intellectual Property Association (ASIAIP), recognizing her proficiency and influence in these sectors.
- Executive Member of AIPPI: As an executive member of the Indian group of the AIPPI (Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriété Intellectuelle), Vidisha plays a crucial role in shaping discussions and policies surrounding intellectual property rights at a national and international level.
These accolades not only highlight Vidisha’s exceptional qualifications and contributions to the field of intellectual property but also underscore her commitment to advancing knowledge and practices in this vital area.
