Which variety of rice was patented by a U.S. company even though the h...
Introduction
The patenting of rice varieties has sparked significant debate, particularly when a U.S. company patents a variety predominantly found in countries like India. Among these varieties, Basmati rice stands out as a notable example.
What is Basmati Rice?
- Basmati rice is known for its unique aroma, long grains, and fluffy texture.
- It has been cultivated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries and is a staple in various traditional dishes.
Patenting Issues
- In the late 1990s, a U.S. company, RiceTec, patented hybrid varieties that they claimed to be Basmati.
- This patent raised concerns among Indian farmers and stakeholders who argued that Basmati is a traditional variety that has been cultivated for generations in India and Pakistan.
Consequences of Patenting
- The patent led to legal battles over the rights to the name "Basmati."
- It highlighted the complexities of intellectual property rights in agriculture, especially concerning indigenous crops.
Conclusion
The case of Basmati rice serves as a significant example of the intersection between traditional agricultural practices and modern patent laws. Despite the patenting attempts, the highest number of Basmati rice varieties continues to be cultivated in India, emphasizing the importance of preserving indigenous agricultural heritage while navigating the challenges posed by globalization and intellectual property rights.
Which variety of rice was patented by a U.S. company even though the h...
In 1997, an American company got patent rights on Basmati rice through the US Patent and Trademark office. This allowed the company to sell a 'new' variety of Basmati, in the US and abroad. This 'new' variety of Basmati had actually been derived from Indian farmer's varieties. Indian Basmati was crossed with semi-dwarf varieties and claimed as an invention or a novelty. The patent extends to functional equivalents, implying that other people selling Basmati rice could be restricted by the patent.