Innovation and creativity are the lifeblood of progress, and intellectual property (IP) is the tool that protects and nurtures these assets. Recognizing and rewarding excellence in this arena, the National Intellectual Property (IP) Awards 2024 are set to honor individuals, institutions, and enterprises that have significantly contributed to strengthening the IP ecosystem in India. These awards are not just about acknowledging past achievements; they aim to inspire future innovation and effective IP management. The primary objective of the National IP Awards is to encourage the creation and commercialization of intellectual property. By doing so, these awards aim to promote an environment where innovation thrives, leading to economic growth and a stronger IP ecosystem in the country. The awards highlight the strategic use of IP in various industries, showcasing how effective IP management can drive success. Categories of Awards This year, the awards will be presented across 13 distinct categories, covering…

            While the definition of Patent merely covers utility patent according to the Indian Patent Act, 1970, the same isn’t true in many other jurisdictions. For example, in the United States, there are three types of patents, namely utility patent, design patent, and plant patent. In India, design patents are called “Industrial Designs” and are defined under the Industrial Designs Act, 2000 (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Act’). India does not have the concept of plant patents and hence we will not be discussing plant patents in this article. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQPpQ8QRqXI Short Explanation about the differences between a Utility Patent and a Design Patent. Utility Patents             Utility patents, as their name suggests, protect the utility/functionality surrounding an invention. Utility patents may be granted to products or processes depending upon the subject matter of the invention. To know more about utility patents read “What is a Patent?” written by Adv. Sutapa…