NEW IPR OFFICE FOR INDIA

The IPKat is thrilled to learn of India's first integrated Intellectual Property Rights Office, inaugurated today by Commerce Minister Kamal Nath (right). The US$28 million building marks the completion of India's project for modernisation and strengthening of IPR and patent offices, Kamal Nath said at the event:

"The facilities provided here are state-of-the-art and comparable to the best in the world. Not only patents, but also trade marks, copyrights and geographical indications are housed here. This modern integrated building complex fulfils a long-felt need. From dingy, old, scattered premises a few years ago, we have now graduated to this modern integrated complex".

The growing importance of intellectual property is seen in a four-fold rise in patent application filings in India in the past five years - from 5,000 in 1999-2000 to 17,000 in 2004. In the last two years India has issued 200,000 trade mark certificates, while another 100,000 certificates expected to be issued during the current year.

The IPKat is relieved that Kamal Nath added a significant proviso: India's intellectual property officers must now ensure delivery of services in an equally efficient and transparent manner, befitting the working environment. It doesn't matter how fancy the building is if the staff aren't well enough trained to tackle the tasks before them. As it is, India's IPR Office looks better able to handle the growing IP burden than the country's court system. Merpel comments, if India can't get the staff, she can always outsource the work to the UK ...

Official press release here
Indian creativity here and here