RMLNLU Conducts Two-Week Capacity Building Programme On Traditional Knowledge Systems & Cultural Expressions [Apply By April 20]
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University (RMLNLU), Lucknow, is organising a Two-Week Capacity Building Programme on “Traditional Knowledge System and Cultural Expressions in India: Social and Legal Dimensions” from May 04–16, 2026. The programme is sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, and will be conducted in offline mode.
About the Programme
India is home to some of the world's most abundant and varied traditional knowledge systems (TKS) and cultural expressions. These include indigenous medicinal knowledge, agricultural practices, ecological conservation techniques, folklore, handicrafts, music, dance, rituals, and oral traditions.
In recent years, these systems have faced serious challenges due to globalisation, commercialisation, and technological advancements, often resulting in misappropriation and lack of benefit-sharing. Against this backdrop, RMLNLU is organising this programme to provide an interdisciplinary platform for faculty members to engage with the social and legal dimensions of traditional knowledge systems and cultural expressions in India.
Concept Note
Existing intellectual property regimes such as copyright, patents, and geographical indications are based on individual authorship, fixation, and novelty. These criteria do not align with the collective and intergenerational nature of traditional knowledge systems, leaving them inadequately protected.
Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs) in India continue to be misappropriated by commercial entities without proper authorisation or benefit-sharing. While mechanisms like the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) provide defensive protection, there remains a lack of strong positive legal rights for communities.
The programme aims to bridge the gap between legal frameworks and social realities by promoting multidisciplinary engagement and culturally sensitive legal solutions.
Themes to be Covered
Legal frameworks for protection of Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions
Geographical Indications (GI), TKDL, and defensive IP mechanisms in India
Bio-piracy, misappropriation, and enforcement inefficiencies
Benefit-sharing mechanisms and community rights under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
Constitutional rights of tribal and marginalised communities (Articles 21, 29; Fifth & Sixth Schedules)
Comparative and international perspectives (CBD, UNDRIP, WIPO-IGC)
Innovative legal research and interdisciplinary teaching methodologies
Policy research on Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions
Objectives of the Programme
To acquaint participants with the social and legal dimensions of Traditional Knowledge Systems and Cultural Expressions
To familiarise participants with the intricacies of traditional knowledge frameworks
To introduce innovative teaching-learning and research methodologies
To enable participants to undertake meaningful research, including policy research
To enhance teaching and research capabilities in social sciences and law
Eligibility
Participants must be Lecturers / Assistant Professors in a UGC-recognised Indian University, Deemed University, College, Institute of National Importance, or ICSSR-recognised institute. Applications must be forwarded through the parent institution.
Programme Details
Mode: Offline Only
Duration: 12 Days (May 04–16, 2026)
Venue: Video Conference Room, Madhu Limaye Library, RMLNLU, Lucknow – 226012
Registration Fee: No Registration Fee
Total Seats: 30 (10 Local | 10 Within State | 10 Outside State)
Important Dates
Last Date of Registration: April 20, 2026
Intimation of Acceptance: April 22, 2026
Hard Copy Submission Deadline: May 02, 2026
Programme Duration: May 04–16, 2026
Registration Details
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/5kQ5XV7CYdzKTYUw5
NOC Format: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eQqy5NYPF2Ib84MzqUjhZGt1QX3IuyE2/edit
Additional Guidelines:
The programme will be conducted in offline mode only
No registration fee is required
Selection will be on a first-cum-first-serve basis
Reservation for SC/ST/OBC/EWS (UP) will be as per applicable rules
Applications must be forwarded with a No Objection Certificate (NOC)
Participants must appear for a written test on May 16, 2026; certificates will be awarded only upon securing at least 50% marks
Hard copy of application along with required documents must be sent to:
The Registrar, RMLNLU, Sector-D1, LDA Colony, Kanpur Road, Ashiyana, Lucknow – 226012
Accommodation, Travel & Food
Travel Allowance will be provided as per ICSSR guidelines
Day hospitality (food) will be provided to all participants
Outstation participants will be provided shared accommodation
Local participants must arrange their own accommodation
About RMLNLU
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya National Law University, Lucknow, was established in 2005 and began operations in 2006. The University offers programmes including PhD, LL.M., and B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), and is known for its advanced infrastructure, including the Madhu Limaye Library and modern academic facilities.
Contact Information
Course Director: Dr. Manoj Kumar
Co-Course Director: Dr. Vikas Bhati
Email: director.cbp2026@gmail.com
Mobile: +91-9891601151, +91-8429457581
Student Coordinators:
Rishi Shukla – +91-7985176907
Ashish Kumar – +91-9455300120