Kerala is a land of unique topography, climate and culture. The     Government policy of nurturing Science had paved for the establishment of an array of world class research establishments, each dedicated to a particular area of scientific exploration. We have specialized research institutions and universities specializing in earth sciences, plant diversity, forestry, biotechnology, agriculture, mathematics, water resources and transport. There exists a climate of multi disciplinary and interdisciplinary studies which attempts to solve real life problems. 
The Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE) as the umbrella organization of the research establishments in Kerala organizes the annual Kerala Science Congress in its effort to take stock of significant research leads during the year, to revitalize R&D in the state and to identify new talents in scientific research in Kerala. The 22nd edition of the Kerala Science Congress is being organized by KSCSTE on the focal theme “Intellectual Property Rights and Development: A National Perspective”. 
Kerala with its high floral and faunal diversity and unique climatic regime has a repertoire of traditional and modern knowledge base which is yet to be documented and protected. The 22nd Kerala Science Congress will brood on the diverse aspects of Intellectual Property Rights like its legal and cultural dimensions, procedural requirements, the case of geographical indicators, and institutional frame work for IPR registration process and similar technical matters. Beyond the protection afforded by IPR, the Science Congress will also look into the pathways in which the legal protection of knowledge can contribute to the economic development and social well being of the nation.  The 22nd Kerala Science Congress will have sessions in which general papers, contest papers and posters in the identified subject areas will be presented. Young Scientist Awards will be presented to the winners of the contest paper under different subject areas. There will also be plenary sessions with invited talks, keynote addresses etc. on subjects related to the special theme. KSC will provide a platform for interaction and exchange of ideas between scientists and young researchers working in different parts of the country. The S&T administrators will have the opportunity to interact with the scientists on the significant research developments leading to the identification of new R&D opportunities and programmes.