New Delhi: WTO (World Trade Organisation) today (Dec 6, 2004) said India should adhere to the deadline of Jan 01, 2005 for introduction of a product patent regime in the country by bringing in necessary legislation to amend its Intellectual Property Rights Law.

"For the benefit of India and for its strong pharmaceutical industry, it was essential for it to adhere to the deadline," WTO Director General Supachai Panitchpakdi, who is in New Delhi to participate in the Indian Economic Summit told reporters.

Asked if the deadline could be extended for India, as it appears the legislation may not be passed in the short winter session of Parliament, Supachai said it was up to the member countries to take a view and New Delhi could have consultations with them in this regard.

However, he said extensions are rare, "We do not encourage it. We do not recommend delay of such laws".

Supachai said that getting involved in litigation with members on account of missing the deadline should be avoided.

A Group of Ministers has firmed up its recommendations for the Cabinet to take decision on the necessary amendments to the Patent law but Left Parties had reservations, which was holding up its introduction in Parliament.