The Indian Patent Office, in collaboration with research conducted by the State Bank of India (SBI), has revealed a striking 17% surge in patent filings, reaching over 90,000 in 2023. This translates to an astonishing average of close to 247 patents applied for each day, marking the highest number recorded in the past two decades.
India's focus on fostering a robust intellectual property (IP) rights ecosystem has been evident, with a noteworthy 15-month reduction in patent pendency, signalling a significant shift.
Increase in homegrown innovation
Notably, there has been a considerable increase in the proportion of patent filings by Indian residents, reflecting a growing emphasis on homegrown innovation.
Educational and scientific institutions have emerged as key drivers of innovation, with institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT Madras), witnessing a doubling of patents granted from 156 to 300 during 2022-2023. The surge in innovation from these institutions, doubling from 15% to 31% over the past decade, underscores their pivotal role in India's innovation landscape. Statistics also reveal that over 840,000 patents were filed in the decade ending December 2023.
Furthermore, the patent filings have been concentrated in fields such as computer and mechanical engineering, with notable contributions from the biotechnological industry. Key areas experiencing patent proliferation include Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals, highlighting India's strides in cutting-edge technological solutions.
India streamlining and expediting IP processes
The reduction in average patent pendency from 53 months to 18 months, particularly in industries like chemical and polymer, signifies a more efficient approval process.
India's innovation landscape is evolving, with Qualcomm leading the pack in patent filings, with about 2,320 patents, followed by Samsung, Huawei, and Ericsson. The patent submissions spearheaded by these companies are indicative of the country's active R&D efforts.
The government's initiatives, including simplifying compliance processes and passing bills like the Jan Vishwas Bill, are aimed at promoting ease of doing business and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. This record-setting achievement underscores India's commitment to nurturing an ecosystem where ideas flourish, driving economic growth and technological advancements.
The expedited IP protection process will enable inventors to capitalise on their creations swiftly, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity.
India's evolving role as a hub for technological breakthroughs is further solidified by its patent surge, attracting global attention, and positioning the nation as a leader in innovation. This progress not only benefits businesses and consumers but also reinforces India's standing as a competitive player in the global market.
FICPI's view and involvement
FICPI uniquely combines education and advocacy on topics around patents and trade marks, with a focus on developing the professional excellence of its individual members. FICPI Forums, Congress, committees and meetings are opportunities to gather insights from the international IP attorney community on any issue, whether it be practice-related or topics of patent and trade mark law.
Next steps
- Pre-register for the 2024 FICPI Forum, taking place in Madrid in September
- Search for FICPI members in India by navigating to the FICPI member directory and searching by country.
- Consider getting involved in FICPI Study & Work Groups, such as Group 3 (CET 3): International Patent Matters.