Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

Definition and Objectives of IPR

• IPR protects human creations, including innovations, literary works, designs, and symbols.
• It promotes innovation by granting creators exclusive rights.
• It encourages fair competition while balancing public interest.
• It protects traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.

Types of IPR

• Patents: Protection for inventions meeting novelty, non-obviousness, and industrial applicability.
• Copyrights: Rights over artistic, literary, and creative works.
• Trademarks: Distinctive signs or symbols identifying goods/services.
• Industrial Designs: Aesthetic and functional designs of products.
• Geographical Indications: Protection for products linked to specific regions.
• Trade Secrets: Confidential business information protected against unauthorized use.

International Conventions and Laws Governing IPR in India

• The Paris Convention (1883) and the Berne Convention (1886) govern international copyright protection.
• The Patent Cooperation Treaty (1970) simplifies global patent application processes.
• The Budapest Treaty ensures recognition of microorganism deposits in patent procedures.
• The Marrakesh Treaty facilitates access to published works for visually impaired persons.

India’s Performance in WIPO 2024 Intellectual Property Report

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• India ranked 6th globally with 64,480 filings (+15.7% growth in 2023).
• Trademark Filings ranked 4th globally with a 6.1% increase in 2023.
• Industrial Designs: 36.4% growth in applications, emphasizing product innovation.

Government Initiatives

• National IPR Policy, 2016: A comprehensive framework to streamline IPR laws and procedures.
• KAPILA Program: Creates awareness among students and faculty about IP filing processes.
• Startup India: Encourages startups to innovate by providing IP support.
• ATAL Innovation Mission (AIM): Promotes problem-solving skills and entrepreneurship.
• Digital Modernization: Enhances IP processes by digitizing filings.
• SPRIHA Program: Strengthens academia’s role in IP awareness and research.