Opening Statement by India at the 38th session of the Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights delivered by Mr. Animesh Choudhury, First Secretary. [01^st April 2019, Geneva]

Mr. Chair

At the outset, India would like to express its confidence on your role as Chair of the Committee and is positive that under your able stewardship, we will make considerable progress this week. We congratulate you and the Vice-Chairs for their election.

Mr. Chair

In view of the rapidly evolving broadcast industry and the increasing use of digital medium for broadcasting, India believes that broadcasting should cover all types of broadcast, irrespective of platform or medium, including internet. The protection under the proposed treaty should not be limited to traditional broadcasters only, but should also include broadcasting over the internet. However, India will continue to support the signal based transmission approach without ownership rights over content to broadcasters.

Mr. Chair

India supports the early finalization of a balanced treaty for the protection of broadcasting organizations. We believe that this committee will work towards factoring in concerns and interests of all member states on the fundamental issues to make the draft text more balanced and acceptable. India will continue to contribute constructively in the deliberations of this Committee.

Mr. Chair

Right to education and access of information are key elements for advancement and promotion of culture, science and education. The limitations and exceptions for libraries and archives and for educational and research institutions and for persons with other disabilities are of critical importance for all individuals as well as development of society.

Attainment of right to Education and access to knowledge to all should be the guiding principles for our work on Exceptions and Limitations. We acknowledge the progress made on the discussion on all topics on the exceptions and limitations for library and archives.

Mr. Chair

India will continue to contribute constructively in the deliberations of this Committee and is positive that this Committee would work towards resolution of all pending issues in the true spirit of multilateral cooperation.

Thank You Mr. Chair