Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) plays a crucial role in fostering innovation, creativity, and economic growth in a nation. To protect and manage various forms of intellectual property, the Indian government introduced the Intellectual Property Rights Policy Management (IPRPM) framework. This comprehensive framework, known as the National IPR Policy 2016, consolidates several types of intellectual property rights under one unified vision document.
Types of Intellectual Property Rights Covered
The National IPR Policy 2016 encompasses a wide array of intellectual property rights, including: Patents, Trademarks, Industrial Designs, Copyrights, Geographical Indications, Semiconductor Integrated Circuit Layout Design, Trade Secret, and Plant Varieties
Appropriate Amendment in IPR Laws and Rules
The National IPR Policy emphasizes improving procedural requirements in processing applications to expedite grant and disposal of intellectual property rights. By streamlining these processes, the policy aims to reduce delays and encourage more innovators and creators to protect their intellectual property.
Modernisation & Digitisation of IP Offices
To enhance the efficiency and performance of IP Offices, the National IPR Policy advocates for the modernization and digitization of their operations. This initiative ensures smoother workflow processes, quicker access to information, and improved services for applicants and rights holders.
Scheme for Facilitating Start-Ups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP)
Recognizing the importance of intellectual property protection for startups, the National IPR Policy introduces the Scheme for Facilitating Start-Ups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP). This scheme encourages startups to file patent applications by providing support and assistance throughout the application process.
Reduction in Filing Fees for Start-ups, MSMEs, and Educational Institutes
To further promote intellectual property protection among startups, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and educational institutes, the National IPR Policy proposes a reduction in filing fees for patent applications. This cost reduction aims to ease the financial burden on these entities and incentivize them to seek patent protection for their innovations.
Expedited Examination for Certain Category of Applicants
The National IPR Policy recognizes the significance of speedy grant of patents for certain applicants, such as startups, small entities, and women inventors. To cater to their needs, the policy introduces expedited examination procedures, enabling faster processing and grant of patents.
Awareness Initiatives and Programs
Creating awareness about the importance of protecting intellectual property is vital for fostering a culture of innovation. The National IPR Policy initiates awareness programs and campaigns to educate stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and inventors about safeguarding their intellectual property rights right from the early stages of business development.
National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM)
As a flagship program, the National Intellectual Property Awareness Mission (NIPAM) aims to impart IP awareness and basic training in educational institutes. By integrating intellectual property education into the curriculum, NIPAM nurtures a generation of IP-conscious individuals who can contribute to innovation and creativity.
National Intellectual Property (IP) Awards
The National IPR Policy acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of individuals, institutions, organizations, and enterprises towards IP creations and commercialization. The National IP Awards, conferred annually, serve to recognize and reward top achievers in the field of intellectual property.
Patent Facilitation Programme
The Patent Facilitation Programme has undergone a revamp under the National IPR Policy. It now scouts for patentable inventions and provides full financial, technical, and legal support to innovators and creators throughout the patent filing process.
Expand Knowledge Capacity & Skill Building
To promote the study, research, and development of intellectual property rights in higher educational institutions, the National IPR Policy establishes IPR chairs across the country under the Scheme for Pedagogy & Research in IPRs for Holistic Education and Academia (SPRIHA). These chairs aim to foster a culture of research and innovation in the academic sector.