Q: Saumya, could you tell us about your journey into Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and what led you to this field?
Saumya Shukla: My path to IPR was quite unplanned. I was born in Lucknow and raised in Prayagraj, a city known for its strong legal traditions. Although I initially studied Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, my interest in law grew over time, leading me to specialize in Intellectual Property Rights. To deepen my understanding, I pursued a Master’s in Intellectual Property Law (MIPL) from IGNOU. Initially, my exposure to IPR was minimal, but as I explored it further, I was drawn to its complexities and its crucial role in today’s technological advancements.
Q: What aspects of intellectual property law fascinate you the most?
Saumya Shukla: For me, intellectual property law is not just about legal frameworks—it’s about safeguarding innovation and human ingenuity. Every invention represents a vision, a creative breakthrough, and I see my role as ensuring that these contributions are protected and recognized.
Q: How has your engineering background enhanced your work in patent law?
Saumya Shukla: My engineering expertise allows me to comprehend intricate inventions and articulate them in legally sound terms. I can break down complex technical aspects, identify key novel features, and formulate strong patent claims that offer inventors maximum protection.
Over time, I’ve developed the ability to think both as an inventor and a legal expert. From an inventor’s view, I focus on functionality and innovation. From a legal standpoint, I ensure novelty, inventive steps, and possible objections are considered
Q: Can you share an instance where your expertise made a significant impact?
Saumya Shukla: One notable case involved a patent dispute between two vendors associated with the same OEM. The opposing party mistakenly introduced an unpublished internal trade secret as evidence. By challenging the validity of their claim, I was able to get it withdrawn, ultimately securing a positive outcome for my client. This case underscored the importance of blending legal insight with technical expertise.
Q: What are some challenges in the Indian patent system?
Saumya Shukla: In India, patents are often undervalued, with many viewing them as symbolic rather than enforceable rights. Historically, foreign entities have led patent filings in the country, and many academic patents lack real-world application. I aim to shift this perception by helping businesses see patents as strategic tools that drive innovation and enhance global competitiveness.
Q: How do you stay ahead in evolving fields like AI, machine learning, and patent law?
Saumya Shukla: Keeping up with advancements requires continuous learning. I regularly read industry reports, attend webinars, and analyze case studies. Conferences and expert discussions help me stay informed about both legal and technological shifts. Additionally, I use patent analytics tools to track global trends and foresee emerging developments.
Q: Do you have any ethical concerns about AI’s role in patent law?
Saumya Shukla: Certainly. A growing concern is the increasing reliance on AI for patent drafting. While AI enhances efficiency, it raises risks such as data privacy breaches and lower-quality patents due to the lack of nuanced understanding. AI-generated drafts often fail to meet the depth required in both legal and technical contexts, so I advocate for using AI as a supporting tool rather than a replacement for expert judgment.
Every invention has a story—how it solves problems, how it stands out, and the potential it holds
Q: What principles guide your approach to ethical patent management?
Saumya Shukla: Ethics in patent management revolve around confidentiality, fairness, and transparency. I ensure sensitive information is handled securely, conflicts of interest are addressed proactively, and intellectual contributions are properly attributed. Well-balanced patent claims are essential—they should be broad enough to provide protection while remaining legally defensible.
Q: What advice would you give to innovators seeking to protect their ideas?
Saumya Shukla: Innovators should view patents as strategic assets, not just regulatory requirements. Working closely with patent professionals ensures their inventions receive proper protection and are positioned for long-term success. Understanding prior art, crafting well-structured claims, and being mindful of AI’s limitations in patent drafting can significantly improve their intellectual property strategies.
Q: Lastly, what keeps you motivated in this profession?
Saumya Shukla: My passion for technology and law fuels my dedication. I see intellectual property law as an enabler of progress, ensuring that groundbreaking ideas receive the recognition and security they deserve. The ever-changing landscape of technology and law keeps me engaged, and I remain committed to contributing meaningfully to this dynamic field.
Featuring: Saumya Shukla
Position: Manager (Patents)
Company: Brainiac IP Solutions
Website: www.brainiacglobal.com
