Step 3: Attach Mandatory Documents (Rule 76) Duly certified copy of original Assignment Deed.

Step 2: File Application (Form TM-A) Documents required: MSME Certificate Logo (if applicable) Incorporation/Deed Registration User Affidavit (if claiming prior use) Power of Attorney (Form TM-48, if filed through an attorney) Modes: Online (preferred) or Physical Filing Step 5: Pay Applicable Fee Here’s where MSME benefits come into play.

Submit missing documents (like stamped POA).

Be prepared to answer questions directly from the Hearing Officer, who may request clarifications, explanations of prior use, or additional documents.

Step 4: File Trademark Application Documents Needed: Logo/Device (if any) User affidavit (if prior use is claimed) Incorporation certificate for company, LLP, partnership, trust, society, etc.

Inventorship Certificates (Rule 70A, Form 8A) Inventors can now request a Certificate of Inventorship, fee ₹900, enhancing recognition and documentation of IP contributions.

Global Filing Trends in Tech Patents Country Tech-Friendly Patent Policies 🇺🇸 USA (USPTO) Broad interpretation of software & AI eligibility post-Enfish 🇪🇺 EPO Allows software if it solves a technical problem in a novel way 🇨🇳 China Encourages AI, IoT, and smart manufacturing patents 🇸🇬 Singapore Startup-friendly patent box and simplified fast track system Best Practices for Patenting in Tech File provisional applications early to secure priority Avoid disclosing ideas publicly before filing Draft claims emphasizing technical problem and effect Maintain documentation of R&D and inventor contributions Align with business strategy — e.g., focus on core algorithms, protocols, or system design Conclusion: Tech Patents as Competitive Tools In the tech industry, patents are not luxuries — they’re weapons.Used strategically, they can: Raise capital Block competition Open global markets Create perpetual revenue through licensing Enhance valuation in IPO or acquisition scenarios Whether you're a startup working on a fintech app or an MNC launching IoT devices, a thoughtful, jurisdiction-aware, and claim-focused patenting approach is your innovation’s strongest legal armor.

M&A and Investment Readiness Maintain portfolio hygiene — expired or lapsed patents flagged Clean documentation and updated status improves due diligence Increases valuation for investors, acquirers, and licensing deals 5.

Legal Foundation of the SIPP Scheme Provision Description Launched By Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce Policy Basis Part of the Startup India Action Plan (2016) Current Validity Extended up to 31 March 2026 (as per latest circulars) Governing Documents IP India Guidelines for Facilitators & SIPP portal Key Objectives of the SIPP Scheme Encourage startups to file more IPs (patents, trademarks, designs) Provide access to certified IP facilitators Cover full cost of professional services Speed up the IP filing process Create IP awareness and ecosystem support Who Is Eligible for SIPP Benefits?

High in US, moderate in EU, emerging in India Remedies in India Section 64 (revocation), Section 84 (compulsory licensing), Competition Act Expert Tip: Build a Smart IP Strategy Don’t just react to threats—design a proactive IP strategy: File patents only with strong novelty and enablement Avoid ambiguous or overly broad claim language Maintain documentation for each innovation decision If approached by a suspected troll, engage IP counsel immediately—do not respond without legal advice Conclusion Don't Feed the Trolls—Fight Strategically Patent trolls exploit the uncertainty of patent law and the high cost of defense.