About Traditional Knowledge (TK) • TK is knowledge, know-how, skills and practices that are developed, sustained and passed on from generation to generation within a community, often forming part of its cultural or spiritual identity. o Until now, access to complete TKDL database is restricted to 14 Patent Offices worldwide for purposes of search and examination. About TKDL • TKDL, first of its kind globally, is a database of Indian traditional knowledge established in 2001, by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Ministry of AYUSH. • It contains information related to Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa, and Yoga in five international languages (English, German, French, Japanese and Spanish). • It seeks to prevent misappropriation of country's traditional medicinal knowledge through patenting worldwide. o TKDL is an effective deterrent against bio-piracy. • Significance o Inculcate thought and knowledge leadership through Bharatiya Gnana Parampara, under New Education Policy 2020. o Boost research and development and innovation based on India’s valued heritage across diverse field. o Provide safer and more effective solutions for healthier and technology endowed population. • Steps taken by government for TK o Biological Diversity Act, 2002 for preservation, maintenance of TK along with equitable sharing of benefits arising from use of TK with communities. o India is a signatory to Convention on Biological Diversity and Nagoya Protocol, which are concerned with trade-in bioresources and use of TK. Conclusion TKDL is proving to be an effective deterrent against bio-piracy and has been recognized as a unique effort. It has been preventing the grant of wrong patents by ensuring access to TK related prior art for patent examiners without restricting the use of traditional knowledge.