Ruling Upholds Access to Cheaper, Generic Drugs

Glivec costs about $1,900 per month, compared with around $175 for a generic versions. India's law restricts pharmaceutical companies from seeking fresh patents for making minor modifications -- an industry practice known as "evergreening".

The ruling might only be a "breather" as patient rights campaigners fear a new India-European Union free trade deal expected soon could contain intellectual property clauses seeking to restrict generic drugmakers.

AFP: India's top court backs generics in key drug patent ruling


IE: Patent with a purpose

FE: Novartis sulks after Supreme Court Glivec verdict, says won't invest in India