India is placed at the 36th position in the 2019 International Intellectual Property Index released by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC) progressing from its 44th position last year. This development can be attributed to the reforms in India including accession to the WIPO Internet Treaties, agreement to initiate a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) with Japan, and IP incentives for small business and administrative reforms.

The Copyright Office has notified that the applicants can now submit Literary/ Dramatic and Artistic works (in original colour scheme) and other related documents online using e-filing module.

The Office of Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trademarks has now notified that the applicants can now file all requisite forms along with respective fee for designs applications through the e-filing system.

Draft Rules inviting objections from the public have been issued, intending to amend the Patent Rules, 2003. The move aims to expand the categories of applicants who can avail of an expedited examination procedure, in particular, applicants of the countries whose Patent Offices have signed a mutual Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) Agreement with the IPO. A beginning in this direction was made recently with the bilateral PPH program with Japan Patent Office. Other notable changes include waiver of the transmittal fees for PCT International application filed electronically by an Indian PCT applicant; constitution of bench for disposal of pre-grant oppositions, etc.

The Copyright Office has recently introduced video conferencing as an alternative mode of hearing. The applicant, within 14 days of receipt the hearing notice, may request the Registrar for a hearing through video conferencing.