A trademark in India is a sign or symbol used to distinguish the goods or services of one person or company from those of another. It can be a word, phrase, logo, design, or combination of these elements. In India, trademark registration is governed by the Trade Marks Act, of 1999 and administered by the Trade Marks Registry.
To register a trademark in India, an application must be filed with the registry, and the registration process typically takes several months to complete. Once registered, a trademark is valid for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely. Additionally, it is important to note that trademark infringement occurs when a third party uses a mark that is identical or similar to a registered trademark without authorization, and legal action can be taken against such infringement.
Process of filing a trademark in India involves several steps, including:
It’s important to note that, the whole process might take around 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the application and any opposition that may arise. It is also important to note that it is advisable to take the help of a professional, such as an IP lawyer, to ensure that the application is filed correctly and to navigate any potential legal issues that may arise during the registration process.