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The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship FY 2024

Kachahari Kanoon

Call for Applications for FY 2024: The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship

The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship is designed to promote international research and collaborative activities on common policy issues that require cooperation and engagement within and beyond the Indo-Pacific region, with the purpose of contributing to the maintenance and strengthening of a free and open international order in the Indo-Pacific region, bringing about peace and prosperity to the entire region.

The program aims to encourage a new generation of researchers, experts, and practitioners who share the same concerns to build a new platform for intellectual cooperation, and to support the formulation of new policy proposals, visions, and initiatives from the Indo-Pacific region with a long-term, future-oriented perspective to contribute to resolving the issues. The program welcomes not only academic researchers but also professionals and practitioners.

Call for Applications FY2024

Please find a program overview below; please refer to the Program Website for more information.

Eligibility of Applicants:

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

Applicants must be citizens of Japan, India, Australia or the U.S.A., or must have at least five years of strong and serious professional experience at an institution in one of these four countries.
Researchers must hold a Ph.D. or the highest academic degree in their field of expertise. Non-research professionals must have a total of seven or more years of work experience in a field related to their proposed research.

Field of Research:

We are accepting applications for policy-oriented projects that contribute to the maintenance and strengthening of a free and open international order in the Indo-Pacific region, bringing about peace and prosperity to the entire region.

These projects should address current and future issues facing the Indo-Pacific region and the wider world today that invite regional connectivity and collaboration.

Possible topics for the Fellowship might include, but are not limited to: climate change, global health, disaster prevention and recovery, mitigating social and economic disparity, demographic shifts, economic security, energy security, food crisis, maritime cooperation (such as maritime law), development cooperation, cyber security, digital transformation, and green transformation. Interdisciplinary proposals that crosscut traditional boundaries (e.g. Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, etc.) are welcomed.

JFIPP Fellowship is designed for multi-country research, and proposals must include at least two countries for research activities other than the applicant’s base country (Proposals carried out in only one country are not eligible for this program).

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship

Fellowship Period:

The Fellowship can cover between 4-12 months of research. Fellowship period must begin between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
The Fellowship tenure period may be divided into two blocks, if necessary, but must be completed within 15 months of the start of the fellowship.
At least half of the fellowship tenure period must be in Japan for non-Japan-based fellows or in one of the other three countries (Australia, India, or the U.S.A.) for Japan-based fellows.

Benefits of the Fellowship:

The Fellowship will cover the following expenses:

Round-trip discount economy class international airfare (only for Fellow)
Accommodation and research allowance
A one-time lump-sum payment for relocation expenses
Additional allowance for dependent family members that accompany the fellow overseas for a minimum of 3 continuous months
Overseas travel insurance (please see guidelines for specific details)

Number of Awardees: 20 (TBD)

Application Procedures:

(1) Application deadline: June 14, 2024 (Fri) noon (Japan Standard Time)

(2) How to apply: Submit the application documents by email attachment

Please go to our Website for the application instructions.

https://www.jpf.go.jp/…/exchange/jfipp/research/index.html

(3) Notification of results (expected): November 2024.

Contact:

Secretariat of JFIPP Fellowship Program

Global Partnerships Department

The Japan Foundation (JF)

Tel: 03-5369-6072

E-mail: JFIPP_research＠jpf.go.jp

(When sending an e-mail, please enter a half-width character instead of a full-width character “＠.”)

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program, Japan Foundation

JAPANESE GOVERNMENT (MEXT) SCHOLARSHIP FOR 2025 (RESEARCH STUDENTS)

April 7, 2024 No Comments

The Embassy of Japan in New Delhi has announced invitation for Indian students to apply for MEXT fellowships to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. studies in Japan. The deadline for application submission is May 3rd, 2024. For further details, please refer to the attached flyer. We request that you share this information with your contacts who may be interested in this opportunity.

Type	Research Students
Level	Graduate school level (Research/Masters Course/Ph.D. course)
Age	Under 35 years old (Applicants, in principle, must have been born on or after April 2, 1990)
Fields of study	(A)Humanities (B)Social Science (C)Mathematical Science (D)Physics (E)Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (F)Biology and Biotechnology (G)Agriculture and Fishery (H)Environmental Science (I)Pharmaceutical Science (J)Geology and Geoinformatics (K)Civil Engineering (L) Architecture (M)Material Science / Engineering (N)Electrical Engineering (O)Electronics & Communications Engineering (P)Mechanical Engineering (Q)Aerospace Engineering (R)Robotics (S)Information Technology (T)Sports Science
Qualifications and Conditions	In addition to the Qualifications and Eligibility Criteria listed in the Guidelines, the following would apply: 1.For Master’s course / Doctoral course (first phase) Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant field with minimum 70% marks. The candidates should obtain their mark sheet and degree on or before September 30, 2025 for the October 2025 batch. 2. Doctoral course (second phase) Master’s degree in the relevant field with minimum 70% marks. Candidates should have practical research/teaching/work experience after obtaining the prescribed qualification on or before 30th September 2025 for the October 2025 batch.
Term of scholarship	Non-regular students: The scholarship period will start from April, September or October 2025 until the end of March 2027. From last year, research only (non-regular) course is abolished. Regular students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, or professional graduate courses:* Regardless of the date of arrival, the scholarship period shall be the necessary period for the completion of the respective regular course (hereinafter referred to as “the standard period of study”. See “13. ACADEMIC PATHWAY FOR RESEARCH STUDENTS” for the standard period of study for each course).
Number of scholarships	To be announced
Stipend	1.Students receiving the preparatory education and non-regular students: 143,000 yen (Approx. Rs.78,600) per month 2. Regular students enrolled in master’s or professional degree courses: 144,000 yen (Approx. Rs.79,200) per month 3. Regular students enrolled in doctoral courses: 145,000 yen (Approx. Rs. 79,700) per month.
Education fees	Exempted
Traveling Expenses	Round-trip airfare will be provided
How to apply and where to send the completed forms	The document screening will be conducted on the basis of the preliminary application form given below. If you wish to apply, please e-mail the form (as an attachment) to us. The last date of submission of the application form is 3 May, 11.59 pm. Please note that the file should be a Microsoft Word file only and should not exceed 1 MB. Applications received at the following email id only, shall be considered as submitted application form. The Preliminary Application Form Email: scholarship-india@nd.mofa.go.jp Application received after the aforesaid date and time will be automatically rejected. Also, files in other formats such as scanned copies of hand written documents, pdf, PowerPoint, google drive, link to google drive, google docs etc. will also be rejected automatically No supporting documents are required to be submitted with the preliminary application. You will only submit the application form along with supporting documents as mentioned in the guidelines if you are shortlisted after the Preliminary Application Form Screening round.
Schedule of the Preliminary Selection	Application Deadline (must): 3 May 2024 Application Screening: May 2024 Notification of result of Preliminary Application Form – 4th Week of May Written Examination: 15 June 2024 Interview: June 15-17 * After the written test, interview will continue from June 15, 3pm onwards, and it will continue for the next two days. You are therefore advised to make necessary arrangement to attend the interview.
Contact	Japan Information Centre (JIC), Embassy of Japan, 50-G, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021. Tel: +91-11-46104865 We will try to answer your genuine queries as much as possible but avoid calling us for confirming information already mentioned in the guidelines/website or for trivial questions.
Past Examination questions are available!	https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/planning/scholarship/application/exam

See/Download Application Guidelines

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program, Japan Foundation

E-Vehicle Policy Approved to Promote India as a Manufacturing Destination for e-vehicles

March 19, 2024 No Comments

The Government of India has approved a scheme to promote India as a manufacturing destination so that e-vehicles with the latest technology can be manufactured in the country. The policy is designed to attract investments in the e-vehicle space by reputed global EV manufacturers.

This will provide Indian consumers with access to latest technology, boost the Make in India initiative, strengthen the EV ecosystem by promoting healthy competition among EV players leading to high volume of production, economies of scale, lower cost of production, reduce imports of crude Oil, lower trade deficit, reduce air pollution, particularly in cities, and will have a positive impact on health and environment.

The policy entails the following: –

Minimum Investment required: Rs 4150 Cr (∼USD 500 Mn)
No limit on maximum Investment
Timeline for manufacturing: 3 years for setting up manufacturing facilities in India, and to start commercial production of e-vehicles, and reach 50% domestic value addition (DVA) within 5 years at the maximum.
Domestic value addition (DVA) during manufacturing: A localization level of 25% by the 3^rd year and 50% by the 5^th year will have to be achieved
The customs duty of 15% (as applicable to CKD units) would be applicable for a period of 5 years
Vehicle of CIF value of USD 35,000 or above will be permissible
The total number of EV allowed for import would be determined by the total duty foregone or investment made, whichever is lower, subject to a maximum of ₹6,484 Cr (equal to incentive under PLI scheme).
Not more than 8,000 EVs per year would be permissible for import under this scheme. The carryover of unutilized annual import limits would be permitted.
The Investment commitment made by the company will have to be backed up by a bank guarantee in lieu of the custom duty forgone
The Bank guarantee will be invoked in case of non-achievement of DVA and minimum investment criteria defined under the scheme guidelines.

Press Release

Link of Gazette Notification of E- Vehicle Policy

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program, Japan Foundation

The Rising Sun Conclave Deepens India-Japan Business Relations

March 19, 2024 No Comments

In the heart of New Delhi, amidst the bustling streets and the vibrant culture, an event of significant importance unfolded – The Rising Sun Conclave. This event served as a pivotal platform for connecting businesses, fostering people-to-people connections, and initiating constructive discussions aimed at enhancing the economic ties between India and Japan.

Organized by the visionary Nupur Tewari, a renowned personality with a mission to bridge the information gap and facilitate stronger ties between the two nations, The Rising Sun Conclave brought together key stakeholders from both India and Japan. The event showcased the rich tapestry of opportunities that lie in the bilateral relations, emphasizing the shared values and complementary strengths of the two nations.

One of the highlights of the conclave was the panel discussions featuring eminent representatives from leading business organizations of both countries. These discussions delved into various aspects of bilateral trade and investment, exploring avenues for collaboration and innovation. Experts exchanged insights on market trends, regulatory frameworks, and emerging sectors, offering valuable perspectives to the audience.

The people-to-people connect aspect of the conclave was equally significant. Entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals from diverse industries had the opportunity to network and forge meaningful relationships. These interactions laid the foundation for future collaborations and partnerships, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures and business practices.

Moreover, The Rising Sun Conclave served as a forum for dialogue on how to further improve the business conditions between India and Japan. Participants shared ideas and suggestions aimed at overcoming challenges, streamlining processes, and leveraging opportunities for mutual benefit. From enhancing trade facilitation measures to promoting technology transfer and skill development, a range of actionable recommendations emerged from the discussions.

In the wake of global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical dynamics, the importance of strong and resilient economic partnerships cannot be overstated. India and Japan, as two major economies in the Asia-Pacific region, have a strategic interest in deepening their collaboration. The Rising Sun Conclave exemplified the commitment of both nations to fostering closer ties and harnessing the full potential of their partnership.

Looking ahead, events like The Rising Sun Conclave will continue to play a crucial role in nurturing the India-Japan relationship. By providing a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and exchange, these initiatives contribute to the development of a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem that benefits businesses, communities, and economies on both sides.

As the curtains draw on The Rising Sun Conclave, the spirit of collaboration and partnership it has ignited will continue to illuminate the path towards a brighter future for India and Japan. With visionary leaders like Nupur Tewari at the helm, the journey towards stronger and deeper relations between the two nations is set to flourish, guided by the rising sun of opportunity and innovation.

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program, Japan Foundation

Navigating Intellectual Property Strategies: Japanese Businesses in India’s Auto Sector

March 16, 2024 No Comments

The automotive sector stands as a cornerstone of India’s industrial landscape, with robust growth and evolving dynamics. Japanese businesses, renowned for their technological prowess and innovation in this domain, have significantly contributed to India’s automotive industry.

As they expand their footprint in India, navigating intellectual property (IP) strategies becomes paramount for sustaining competitive advantage. This article delves into the intricacies of IP strategies adopted by Japanese businesses operating in India’s auto sector, supported by empirical data and insightful analysis.

Overview of India’s Auto Sector:

India’s automotive industry is one of the largest in the world, characterized by diverse offerings spanning two-wheelers, cars, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicles (EVs). With a growing middle class and increasing disposable income, India presents a lucrative market for automotive manufacturers.

Japanese Presence in India’s Auto Sector:

Japanese automotive giants such as Toyota, Suzuki, Honda, Nissan, and Yamaha have established a formidable presence in India. Their expertise in technology, quality, and efficiency has significantly influenced the Indian automotive landscape.

Importance of Intellectual Property in the Auto Sector:

Intellectual property serves as the bedrock of innovation and competitiveness in the auto sector.

Patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets play pivotal roles in protecting innovations, designs, brands, and business processes.

IP Strategies Adopted by Japanese Businesses:

Patent Protection: Japanese auto manufacturers prioritize patent filings to safeguard their technological innovations. These patents cover various aspects including engine technologies, safety features, fuel efficiency enhancements, and electric vehicle advancements.

Fact Sheet: According to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Japanese auto companies collectively filed thousands of patents in India over the past decade. Toyota filed the highest number of patents among Japanese automakers in India, focusing on hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.

Trademark Management: Maintaining a strong brand identity is crucial for Japanese auto companies in India. They meticulously manage trademarks to protect their brand equity and prevent infringement.

Fact Sheet: Suzuki’s Swift and Honda’s Activa are among the most recognized trademarks in India’s automotive market. Nissan faced trademark disputes in India, highlighting the importance of proactive trademark management.

Collaboration and Licensing: Japanese auto manufacturers often engage in collaborations and licensing agreements with Indian counterparts to leverage local expertise and facilitate technology transfer while ensuring IP protection.

Fact Sheet: Suzuki’s partnership with Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) exemplifies successful collaboration, leading to the proliferation of Suzuki’s technology and models in the Indian market. Licensing agreements between Japanese and Indian companies have accelerated the adoption of advanced safety and emission control technologies in India’s auto sector.

Litigation and Enforcement: Infringement of intellectual property rights remains a significant challenge in India’s auto sector. Japanese businesses resort to litigation and enforcement measures to protect their IP assets and deter unauthorized use.

Fact Sheet: Honda pursued legal action against counterfeit spare parts manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of stringent enforcement to maintain product quality and consumer trust. Toyota initiated legal proceedings to protect its hybrid technology patents from unauthorized use by domestic manufacturers.

Empirical Data Analysis: An empirical analysis of patent filings, trademark registrations, litigation cases, and collaboration agreements provides insights into the IP strategies of Japanese businesses in India’s auto sector. This data underscores the proactive approach adopted by Japanese companies to safeguard their intellectual property while capitalizing on India’s burgeoning automotive market.

Conclusion: In conclusion, intellectual property strategies are integral to the success and sustainability of Japanese businesses operating in India’s auto sector. By leveraging patents, trademarks, collaborations, and enforcement mechanisms, Japanese auto manufacturers can foster innovation, protect their investments, and maintain a competitive edge in India’s dynamic automotive landscape.

References:
1. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Reports.
2. Indian Patent Office Database.
3. Automotive Industry Reports and Market Analysis.
4. Legal Cases and News Articles on IP Enforcement in India’s Auto Sector.

Indo-Pacific Partnership Program, Japan Foundation

The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship FY 2024

Kachahari Kanoon

Call for Applications for FY 2024: The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship

JAPANESE GOVERNMENT (MEXT) SCHOLARSHIP FOR 2025 (RESEARCH STUDENTS)

E-Vehicle Policy Approved to Promote India as a Manufacturing Destination for e-vehicles

The Government of India has approved a scheme to promote India as a manufacturing destination so that e-vehicles with the latest technology can be manufactured in the country. The policy is designed to attract investments in the e-vehicle space by reputed global EV manufacturers.

The Rising Sun Conclave Deepens India-Japan Business Relations

Navigating Intellectual Property Strategies: Japanese Businesses in India’s Auto Sector

The automotive sector stands as a cornerstone of India’s industrial landscape, with robust growth and evolving dynamics. Japanese businesses, renowned for their technological prowess and innovation in this domain, have significantly contributed to India’s automotive industry.

Overview of India’s Auto Sector:

Japanese Presence in India’s Auto Sector:

Japanese automotive giants such as Toyota, Suzuki, Honda, Nissan, and Yamaha have established a formidable presence in India. Their expertise in technology, quality, and efficiency has significantly influenced the Indian automotive landscape.

Importance of Intellectual Property in the Auto Sector:

Intellectual property serves as the bedrock of innovation and competitiveness in the auto sector.

Patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets play pivotal roles in protecting innovations, designs, brands, and business processes.

IP Strategies Adopted by Japanese Businesses:

Patent Protection: Japanese auto manufacturers prioritize patent filings to safeguard their technological innovations. These patents cover various aspects including engine technologies, safety features, fuel efficiency enhancements, and electric vehicle advancements.

Trademark Management: Maintaining a strong brand identity is crucial for Japanese auto companies in India. They meticulously manage trademarks to protect their brand equity and prevent infringement.

Fact Sheet: Suzuki’s Swift and Honda’s Activa are among the most recognized trademarks in India’s automotive market. Nissan faced trademark disputes in India, highlighting the importance of proactive trademark management.

Collaboration and Licensing: Japanese auto manufacturers often engage in collaborations and licensing agreements with Indian counterparts to leverage local expertise and facilitate technology transfer while ensuring IP protection.

Litigation and Enforcement: Infringement of intellectual property rights remains a significant challenge in India’s auto sector. Japanese businesses resort to litigation and enforcement measures to protect their IP assets and deter unauthorized use.

References:
1. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Reports.
2. Indian Patent Office Database.
3. Automotive Industry Reports and Market Analysis.
4. Legal Cases and News Articles on IP Enforcement in India’s Auto Sector.

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The Rising Sun Conclave Deepens India-Japan Business Relations

Navigating Intellectual Property Strategies: Japanese Businesses in India’s Auto Sector

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The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship FY 2024

Kachahari Kanoon

Call for Applications for FY 2024: The Japan Foundation Indo-Pacific Partnership Program (JFIPP) Research Fellowship

The Government of India has approved a scheme to promote India as a manufacturing destination so that e-vehicles with the latest technology can be manufactured in the country. The policy is designed to attract investments in the e-vehicle space by reputed global EV manufacturers.

The automotive sector stands as a cornerstone of India’s industrial landscape, with robust growth and evolving dynamics. Japanese businesses, renowned for their technological prowess and innovation in this domain, have significantly contributed to India’s automotive industry.

Overview of India’s Auto Sector:

Japanese Presence in India’s Auto Sector:

Japanese automotive giants such as Toyota, Suzuki, Honda, Nissan, and Yamaha have established a formidable presence in India. Their expertise in technology, quality, and efficiency has significantly influenced the Indian automotive landscape.

Importance of Intellectual Property in the Auto Sector:

Intellectual property serves as the bedrock of innovation and competitiveness in the auto sector.

Patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets play pivotal roles in protecting innovations, designs, brands, and business processes.

IP Strategies Adopted by Japanese Businesses:

Patent Protection: Japanese auto manufacturers prioritize patent filings to safeguard their technological innovations. These patents cover various aspects including engine technologies, safety features, fuel efficiency enhancements, and electric vehicle advancements.

Trademark Management: Maintaining a strong brand identity is crucial for Japanese auto companies in India. They meticulously manage trademarks to protect their brand equity and prevent infringement.

Fact Sheet: Suzuki’s Swift and Honda’s Activa are among the most recognized trademarks in India’s automotive market. Nissan faced trademark disputes in India, highlighting the importance of proactive trademark management.

Collaboration and Licensing: Japanese auto manufacturers often engage in collaborations and licensing agreements with Indian counterparts to leverage local expertise and facilitate technology transfer while ensuring IP protection.

Litigation and Enforcement: Infringement of intellectual property rights remains a significant challenge in India’s auto sector. Japanese businesses resort to litigation and enforcement measures to protect their IP assets and deter unauthorized use.

References: 1. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Reports. 2. Indian Patent Office Database. 3. Automotive Industry Reports and Market Analysis. 4. Legal Cases and News Articles on IP Enforcement in India’s Auto Sector.

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References:
1. World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Reports.
2. Indian Patent Office Database.
3. Automotive Industry Reports and Market Analysis.
4. Legal Cases and News Articles on IP Enforcement in India’s Auto Sector.