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.

Common Reasons for Changing Your Patent Agent Reason Impact Poor technical drafting or FER responses Risk of refusal or weak claims Communication delays Missed deadlines or client dissatisfaction Lack of transparency on timelines/fees Compliance issues or financial uncertainty Business model shift (e.g., moving from India-only to global filings) Need for specialized global IP counsel Merger or acquisition of client company New counsel preferred by new management Loss of trust, breach of confidentiality Legal risk and immediate termination required Step-by-Step Process to Change Patent Agent Step 1: Revoke Previous Authorization While Indian law does not mandate a formal revocation document, it is best practice to notify the outgoing patent agent in writing and document the revocation for internal records.

Eligibility for Expedited Examination (As per 2024 Amendments) Eligible Applicant Condition Startups Registered with DPIIT Small Entities Including MSMEs Female Applicants Sole or joint applicants Government Departments / PSUs / Institutions Central or State level Applicants eligible for PPH (Patent Prosecution Highway) Through designated foreign IP offices Entities opting for India as ISA or IPEA under PCT Must have filed PCT application through IPO Required Documents for Expedited Examination Form 18A – Application for Expedited Examination Proof of eligibility (Startup recognition, MSME certificate, etc.)