A complete guide to the patent numbering system in India—covering application, publication, and grant numbers. Learn how to interpret codes for patent type, year of filing, and jurisdiction, and how this system supports prior art searches, legal filings, and IP management.

What is Patent Numbering?

The patent numbering system in India is a critical component of intellectual property (IP) infrastructure. Patent numbers are unique identifiers assigned to patent applications and granted patents by the Indian Patent Office (IPO). These numbers ensure precise tracking, transparency, and accessibility across the entire lifecycle of a patent.

India’s patent numbering system has undergone significant changes—from older numbering formats used prior to 2005, to the structured and digitized systems introduced thereafter, and most recently, the streamlined unified format implemented in 2024.

This article explores the evolution of India's patent numbering system, including:

• Format changes over the years

• Meaning of each segment of a patent number

• Benefits of the 2024 unified format

• Legal references, publication practices, and case implications

1. Pre-2005 System (Legacy Number Format)

Prior to the full digital integration of IPO systems, patent applications were assigned sequential numbers based on the receiving patent office:

🔹 Prefixes like DEL, MUM, CH, and KOL indicated the patent office jurisdiction: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata respectively.

2. Post-2005 System (Digitized Application Numbers)

Following the modernization of India’s patent system under the e-Governance initiative, a more uniform 12-digit application numbering structure was introduced:

Where:

• YYYY: Year of filing (e.g., 2017)

• NNNNNNNN: Serial number, assigned sequentially at national level

This format enabled:

• Centralized filing across jurisdictions

• Efficient internal processing

• Integration with IP systems like InPASS

 3. 2024 Unified Numbering System (as per IPO Notification)

On July 12, 2024, the Indian Patent Office announced a revamped New Unified Numbering System for all types of patent filings.

As per official IPO notifications, the new format is structured as:

Segments:

• AA – Country code (e.g., IN for India)

• YYYY – Year of filing (e.g., 2024)

• NNNNNNN – Application sequence number, padded with zeroes

Effective for:

• Ordinary Applications

• PCT National Phase Entries

• Convention Applications

• Divisional Applications

• Patents of Addition

Transition Note: Existing applications filed before 2024 will be mapped to this format in IPO communications for consistency.

Example Use:

• Application No: IN-2024-0002543

• Published Patent No: IN-0002543-B (upon grant)

Legal References and Practice

The Patents Act, 1970 and the Patents Rules, 2003 (as amended in 2024) empower the Controller General to manage application numbering and format.

Relevant Statutory Provisions:

• Section 6 to 11: Define eligible applicants and types of patent applications

• Rule 13: Lays down application form and format requirements

• Rule 20: Governs PCT national phase entries and processing

Practical Implications

1. Simplified Search and Prosecution

Patent numbers are essential for:

• Filing FER Responses

• Oppositions, Amendments

• Hearings and Appeals

 2. Global Harmonization

The new format aligns with WIPO ST.13 standard, facilitating data integration and harmonized reporting across IP5 offices.

3. Portfolio Management

Patent agents, R&D departments, and startups can:

• Easily organize applications year-wise

• Automate docketing and compliance reminders

Conclusion

India’s patent numbering system has matured from region-based manual identifiers to a globally harmonized structure.

The 2024 unified format enhances:

• Procedural efficiency

• Transparency for applicants

• Compatibility with global IP platforms

FAQs – Patent Numbering in India

Q1. Can I still track old application numbers filed under DEL/MUM/CH format?
👉 Yes. They are searchable in the IPO database and linked internally to new formats.

Q2. Is the new format mandatory for ongoing applications filed earlier?
👉 Yes. From July 2024 onwards, IPO issues communications using the new format for all applications.

Q3. Are granted patent numbers different from application numbers?
👉 Yes. A new publication number (e.g., IN-123456-B) is issued on grant.

Q4. Will this affect my international applications?
👉 No. The WIPO-compliant format makes it easier for global referencing.

Q5. How can I check a patent application status using the new number?
👉 Visit InPASS or the IPO e-filing portal. or QuickCompany