The patent numbering system in India is a critical component of intellectual property (IP) infrastructure.

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.)

Box 6.25% Applies to qualified IP income 🇳🇱 Netherlands Innovation Box 7% Applies to profits from innovative assets India’s regime applies only to individuals and does not offer a corporate innovation box like its OECD counterparts.

Choosing the Right IP Protection for Software Software often constitutes both technical innovation and creative expression—but these two elements are governed by distinct legal regimes.

In India and many other countries, pure software "as such" is not patentable, but software with a technical effect or technical contribution may be eligible.

This guide will walk you through how to respond to a patent opposition in India, with strategy, procedure, and examples.

Learn about Patent Show Cause Hearings in India—purpose, process, and tips for preparing effective responses to overcome objections and secure patent grants.

Once the Indian Patent Office examines your patent application, it issues a First Examination Report (FER).

Limiting patent protection to India alone leaves these inventions vulnerable to imitation or misappropriation in major foreign markets.However, international patent filing can be financially burdensome.

PCT National Phase Entry in India PCT National Phase applications are governed by Rule 20 and must enter India within 31 months from the priority date (first international filing date).