Legal protection for brand names, logos, and symbols used to distinguish goods or services in the marketplace.
Trademark registration protects a brand's identity including names, logos, slogans, and symbols used to distinguish goods/services. Registration is done with the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks under the Trade Marks Act, 1999. The ® symbol can only be used after registration. Trademark is valid for 10 years and renewable. Unregistered trademarks use ™ symbol. India follows the Nice Classification (45 classes).
Search for trademark availability on IP India portal → File trademark application (Form TM-A) online → Pay the prescribed fee → Examination by Trademark Office (takes about 3-6 months) → Publication in Trademark Journal (if accepted) → Opposition period (4 months) → Registration → Certificate
Search IP India database to ensure mark is not already registered
Submit Form TM-A online on ipindia.gov.in
Examiner reviews application for distinctiveness and conflicts
Trademark published in Journal for 4-month opposition period
Certificate issued if no opposition or opposition is resolved