India Witnesses 44% Surge in IP Filings Over Five Years,

India has witnessed a 44% surge in IP filings over five years, driven by government policy reforms, fee concessions, and digitization of IP services. The growth reflects rising awareness, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and efforts to protect indigenous products through Geographical Indications (GI), patents, and trademarks.

Background

Between 2020–21 and 2024–25, total IP filings increased from 4.77 lakh to 6.89 lakh. The highest growth was in Geographical Indications (380%), followed by Designs (266%), Patents (180%), and Copyrights (83%). This reflects the government’s proactive push to promote innovation and protect intellectual assets.

Key Reforms and Features

• Patents: Online-only filing, simplified Form 27, reduced timelines for Request for Examination (31 months), and 10% fee discounts for e-renewals.
• Trademarks: Consolidation of 74 forms into 8, express filing for sound marks, and streamlined procedures for Registered Users.
• Designs: Adoption of Locarno Classification and digitized processing.
• Copyright: Simplified rules for software and improved transparency of societies.
• GI: Easier registration for Authorized Users.

Support for Startups and MSMEs

Fee Reductions,

• 80% for patents
• 75% for designs
• 50% for trademarks

Expedited Examination available for startups, MSMEs, female applicants, and government bodies under amended rules.

Digital Transformation and Innovation

• 95%+ of filings are now online.
• Introduction of AI-based Trademark Search, IP Dashboard, and IP Sarthi Chatbot.
• 24×7 e-Filing system with real-time tracking, video conferencing, e-certificates, and SMS alerts.

IP Awareness and Outreach

• National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM): Reached 25+ lakh students via 9500 programs across all States/UTs.
• WIPO IP Diagnostics Tool launched in 5 languages for startups and MSMEs.
• SIPP Scheme: Offers pro bono IP support to startups, extended to educational institutions.

Manpower and Grievance Redressal

• Patent office strength increased by 233%, from 431 in 2014 to 1433 in 2024.
• Daily Open House Conferences and Open House IT Helpdesk launched for grievance redressal.

Geographical Indications: Sharp Rise

Post-COVID recovery saw a steep rise in GI registrations, peaking at 160 in 2023–24. India has now registered 697 GIs, showing a stronger push to protect traditional and regional products.