Trademarks in India
Definition and Importance: A trademark serves as a distinctive sign distinguishing the goods or services of one entity from others. Registration is crucial for preventing unauthorized replication and fostering brand identity.
Trademark Registration Process: The trademark registration process includes application submission, procedures outlined in Section 18 of the Trade Marks Act, trademark selection, search, filing, Vienna Codification (if applicable), inspection, publication, objection handling, and issuance of the registration certificate.
Validity and Effects of Non-Registration: Trademark registration is initially valid for ten years, renewable upon compliance with specified conditions. Non-registration, as per Section 27 of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, limits statutory rights against infringement.