The regional chapter of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is planning to prepare a detailed directory of tribal ‘Nattarivukal’ (traditional knowledge) related to medicine.
The move is part of the university’s effort to conserve the intellectual property of tribes in the state and put an end to piracy of indigenous knowledge .
Dr M Rajesh, Regional Director, IGNOU, said that the tribal societies are so rich in traditional knowledge especially on medicine preparation. This knowledge, acquired from their ancestors orally, is very ancient. Interestingly, nobody has attempted to document these medicines or the way they are prepared. These medicines are in high demand especially at the foreign market. Due to ignorance regarding Intellectual Property Rights, this knowledge remain unregistered.
“There are some conmen operating in the state who get hold of this traditional knowledge and patents them, thus depriving the tribes of any benefits. Considering such activities, we decided to launch the directory. In a priliminary study we have documented 300 medicines used by tribals,” said Dr M Rajesh.
As part of the project, IGNOU would be forming an expert team. They will conduct a field visit to tribal areas across the state and will collect details from tribal people. Later it would be recorded in the directory. “During the first stage, we will be focusing on Kadar tribes of Parambikulam,” he said.
Due to the lack of sufficient funds, IGNOU has submitted a proposal to the Kerala State Council For Science, Technology and Environment, for allocating a fund of `11 lakh for the project.