Prithwiraj, originally from Singur near Kolkata, grew up surrounded by stories of art and culture thanks to his father, a Bengali literature professor and folk researcher. This early exposure inspired him to explore traditional Indian crafts. For his final-year project, he chose to study the **Channapatna craft**, Karnataka’s age-old wooden toy-making tradition, known for its distinctive lacquered wooden products. His innovation recently earned him an international design patent, marking a significant achievement in eco-conscious fashion design.
Over several weeks, Prithwiraj worked closely with Channapatna artisans. He learned their techniques, materials, and the cultural significance of their craft. Drawing from this experience, he designed the watch’s dial using lacquered wood colored with natural dyes sourced from the region, including the famous red color extracted from local soil. This authentic touch preserves the cultural legacy while giving the watch a warm, traditional appeal.
The watch case is crafted from recycled aluminum, sourced from discarded automobile engine parts and machinery. This sustainable choice reduces industrial waste and lowers the environmental footprint of the product. Olavu’s modular design allows users to swap wooden dials easily. This feature promotes personalization and prolongs the product’s life, contrasting with the disposable nature of many fashion accessories today.
Functionality is also a priority. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters (10-bar rating), thanks to the lacquer finish that prevents the wood from swelling or warping due to moisture. The precision of the watch is maintained with an accuracy of up to 0.5 mm, combining modern engineering with traditional craftsmanship.
The name “Olavu” means “love and affection” in Kannada, reflecting the emotional connection Prithwiraj wants to foster between the wearer and the watch. The international design patent recognizes the innovation and cultural significance of this creation, emphasizing how heritage and sustainability can coexist in modern design.
Prithwiraj’s work highlights the potential of young Indian designers to reshape fashion by integrating indigenous knowledge with contemporary needs. Olavu stands as a symbol of eco-friendly innovation rooted in tradition.
For more information about **Channapatna craft**, visit the [Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation](https://khandicrafts.karnataka.gov.in/).
To explore more on sustainable fashion and accessories, check out the [Sustainable Fashion Guide](https://www.sustainablefashionguide.org/).
Gayatri
Delhi High Court Awards ₹8 Lakh to Puma in Trademark Infringement Suit Over Counterfeit Goods
The Delhi High Court has awarded ₹8 lakh in damages to global sportswear giant PUMA SE in a trademark infringement case against a seller of counterfeit products. The court also issued a permanent injunction restraining the defendant from using Puma’s registered trademarks.
⚖️ Court Decision
Justice Saurabh Banerjee, presiding over the case, held that the defendant had willfully violated Puma’s trademark rights by selling fake products bearing identical marks. The court observed that the imitation was not accidental but a deliberate attempt to deceive consumers.
The court noted:
“The products being sold by the defendant are counterfeit, carrying the same logos, marks, and branding, which clearly shows the intent to ride upon the reputation of the plaintiff.”
Since the defendant failed to appear or submit any response despite several notices—especially after February 2024—the case proceeded ex parte.
🔗 Read full judgment coverage on LiveLaw
🛑 Counterfeiting and Consumer Deception
The court emphasized that Puma’s trademarks are well-known globally and have established significant goodwill and consumer trust in India. The defendant, by selling goods with identical marks in the same trade channels, violated the Trade Marks Act, 1999, and engaged in unfair competition.
This judgment aims to set a precedent for stricter action against counterfeiters who infringe on the rights of established brands and mislead Indian consumers.
“This is not a mere case of passing off; it is a case of outright counterfeiting,” the court held.
💰 Damages and Penalty
The High Court awarded Puma ₹8 lakh as compensation, citing the following reasons:
- The damage to the brand’s reputation.
- The loss of genuine sales and business.
- The need to deter such unlawful conduct.
The court rejected symbolic damages and instead granted substantial monetary relief, reinforcing the seriousness of trademark violations.
🧾 Background of the Case
Puma filed the lawsuit after discovering the unauthorized sale of counterfeit Puma products by a local trader. The company sought:
- A permanent injunction.
- Damages for trademark infringement.
- Disclosure of profits earned from fake goods.
Despite several summonses and notices, the defendant remained absent, prompting the court to decide based on the material available.
🔍 Legal Significance
This case highlights India’s growing judicial commitment to protecting IP rights, especially for well-known trademarks. Courts are increasingly awarding higher damages to deter counterfeiting, sending a clear signal to violators.
A similar ruling by the Delhi High Court in March 2025 also awarded ₹11 lakh in damages to Puma in a separate counterfeit case, showing judicial consistency in protecting brand owners.
Delhi High Court Denies Patent for Kroll’s P2P Monitoring System, Citing Software Exclusion Under Section 3(k)
In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has refused to grant a patent to Kroll Information Assurance LLC, a US-based company, for a system designed to track users who share sensitive content through peer-to-peer (P2P) networks. The Court determined that the invention falls under the excluded category of computer programs or algorithms, as outlined in Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act, 1970.
🔍 About the Patent Application
The Indian patent application (No. 8100/DELNP/2007), originating from a US priority application filed in April 2005, proposed a monitoring tool. This tool was intended to search P2P networks using keywords and identify users distributing confidential or protected files. The system aimed to create detailed user profiles and support data loss investigations.
According to the patent claim, the system functioned via basic computing infrastructure—processors, memory, storage devices—and relied heavily on software-based algorithms for search and analysis.
⚖️ Key Objections Raised by the Patent Office
The Indian Patent Office previously refused the application for the following reasons:
- Lack of Inventive Step: As per Section 2(1)(ja) of the Patents Act, the claimed invention was seen as obvious, offering no technical advancement over existing solutions.
- Ineligible Subject Matter: Under Section 3(k), the system was deemed a software algorithm or computer program, which is excluded from patentability in India.
- Improper Amendments: The amended claims were said to introduce elements not disclosed in the original filing, allegedly violating Section 59 of the Act.
🧑⚖️ Court’s Analysis and Final Verdict
The matter was heard by Justice Prathiba M. Singh, who offered a nuanced interpretation of Indian patent law:
- On Amendments: The Court held that the claim amendments were valid. They were supported by the original specification and only narrowed the claims, which is permitted under Section 59.
- On Technical Advancement: Despite allowing the amendments, the Court found the invention lacked any real technical contribution. It merely applied a known method—keyword searching—on a P2P platform using conventional computing resources.
- On Section 3(k): The bench concluded that the claims represented a computer program per se, and thus clearly fell within the scope of the non-patentable subject matter under Section 3(k).
The Court relied on key precedents, including:
- Ferid Allani v. Union of India – Read here
- Microsoft Corp. v. Assistant Controller of Patents
- Lava International Ltd. v. Ericsson
These rulings reaffirm that software without a technical effect or hardware integration is not eligible for patent protection in India.
🧠 Implications for Software Patentability
This judgment underscores India’s strict interpretation of Section 3(k). Patent claims that describe an algorithm or software-based method without technological innovation are likely to be denied, regardless of commercial or investigative utility.
To secure patent protection for software inventions in India, applicants must demonstrate that their innovation results in a technical effect or enhancement of a computing process or hardware function.
🌐 Useful Resources:
Rajasthan High Court: Registrar Cannot Remove Trademark Without Serving Notice
In a key ruling, the Rajasthan High Court has declared that a registered trademark cannot be removed from the Trade Marks Register without issuing a mandatory notice under Section 25(3) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.
The Court criticized the Registrar of Trademarks for removing a mark without serving Notice O-3, as required under Rule 58 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2017.
⚖️ What the Court Said
Justice Uma Shanker Vyas held that:
- Issuing notice is mandatory before deleting any trademark.
- Even if a renewal application is not filed, removal cannot happen without prior warning.
- The Registrar’s duty is to comply with Section 25(3) and Rule 58.
The Court concluded that failure to issue Notice O-3 violates the rights of trademark holders. It set aside the removal and ordered the restoration of the trademark.
📌 Case Background
The petitioner held a valid trademark that had expired over seven years ago. However, they did not receive any notice from the Registry before the mark was deleted.
The Registrar acted unilaterally, without following the legal process. This prompted the petitioner to challenge the move in court.
📘 Legal Position: Section 25 and Rule 58
- Section 25(1): Trademark registration is valid for ten years.
- Section 25(3): Registrar must serve notice before removal if renewal is not filed.
- Rule 58: Requires the issuance of Notice O-3 at least one month before expiry.
If the Registrar skips this process, the removal becomes illegal. This ruling follows the precedent set by the Bombay High Court in a similar case.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. It is based on official legal documents and public court records. It does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an intellectual property lawyer for case-specific guidance.
Crunchfish Receives Patent in Taiwan for Offline Payment Breakthrough
Taiwan has officially granted a patent to Crunchfish Digital Cash AB, a Sweden-based fintech company, for its cutting-edge offline payment solution. The newly awarded patent (No. I888477) covers Crunchfish’s “Reserve–Pay–Settle” technology that enables digital payments to occur securely without an internet connection. The patent will remain valid until January 2041.
The announcement comes after similar patents were approved in the United States in July 2024 and in the European Union, with a decision to grant issued in December 2024 and confirmed in June 2025.
🔗 Full story on TradingView via Reuters
What Is Crunchfish’s Patent About?
Crunchfish’s patented system allows payments to be made even when devices are offline. The process works in three stages:
- Reserve: The payer locks funds for the transaction.
- Pay: The transaction is digitally signed offline.
- Settle: Once the payer or payee reconnects to the internet, the transaction is settled online.
This approach solves a major challenge in digital payments by providing resilience in areas with limited connectivity or during network outages. It also supports Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) initiatives where offline capability is crucial.
📘 For more on Crunchfish’s Digital Cash platform, visit the official site.
Expanding Global IP Footprint
Taiwan becomes the third major jurisdiction to grant Crunchfish a patent for its offline payment system. The company’s technology is now protected in:
- 🇺🇸 United States – Patent granted in July 2024
- 🇪🇺 European Union – Patent finalized in June 2025
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan – Patent issued in July 2025
Patent applications are also pending in India and China. A hearing in India is expected later in July 2025.
Leadership Statement
Joachim Samuelsson, CEO of Crunchfish, commented on the milestone:
“Securing the patent in Taiwan confirms the global value of our innovation. This technology addresses the future of payments, especially in challenging environments.”
📢 See more from Crunchfish in their newsroom
Why This Matters
The patent is crucial for:
- Boosting financial inclusion in offline areas
- Enhancing payment reliability during internet failures
- Supporting CBDC rollouts with offline functionality
- Protecting Crunchfish’s innovation in key Asian markets
The development also increases Crunchfish’s leverage in licensing and future partnerships.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information available as of July 12, 2025. All IP rights belong to their respective owners. Please consult crunchfish.com and official IP databases for verification and updates.
Big Pharma Faces $180 Billion ‘Patent Cliff’ Threat by 2028
Global pharmaceutical giants are preparing for a major challenge as patents on many best-selling drugs near expiration. Analysts warn of a looming “patent cliff” set to hit the industry between 2027 and 2028. This wave of expirations could erase $180 billion in annual revenues, or about 12% of global pharma sales.
What is a Patent Cliff?
A patent cliff refers to a sharp revenue drop that occurs when patents on high-earning drugs expire. Once exclusivity ends, generic and biosimilar competitors can enter the market, driving prices down rapidly.
One of the biggest drugs facing expiry is Keytruda, a cancer therapy by Merck. The drug earned nearly $30 billion in 2024, making it the world’s top-selling drug. Keytruda’s patent is set to expire in 2028, opening the floodgates to biosimilars.
Pharma’s Strategic Shift
To offset future losses, Big Pharma is shifting away from mega-mergers and embracing targeted acquisitions.
For instance, Merck recently acquired Verona Pharma for $10 billion. Verona’s lead drug, Ohtuvayre, treats chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and recently received FDA approval. Analysts project this therapy could generate $4 billion in annual sales by the mid-2030s.
Read more: Merck’s Verona Pharma deal – FT
More than Just Mergers
Beyond acquisitions, companies are also using patent-extension tactics. This includes reformulating drugs or introducing new delivery systems to create fresh patents — a controversial method often called “patent thicketing.”
Some firms are also accelerating R&D, especially in oncology, immunotherapy, and gene editing. Despite the uncertainty, the industry sits on $1.3 trillion in deal-making capital.
Risks on the Horizon
The path ahead is not without risk.
- Regulatory uncertainty in the U.S. and Europe could impact drug pricing and market access.
- Investor sentiment is also shifting. Shareholders now favor innovation-led growth over cost-cutting from large-scale mergers.
- Biosimilar competition is rising slowly but surely, particularly for complex biologics like Humira and Keytruda.
The Road Ahead
Industry leaders must act fast. Without fresh blockbusters, companies could lose tens of billions in yearly revenue.
Pharma is in a race — not only to find the next big drug — but also to navigate a complex legal and regulatory environment. The next 12 to 18 months could determine which companies stay ahead and which fall behind.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information sourced from the Financial Times. For the full original article, visit FT.com.
India’s IP Laws Struggle to Protect Traditional Cultural Expressions Amid Rising Cultural Appropriation
India’s diverse cultural heritage faces increasing threats from misappropriation. Yet, its legal framework remains unequipped to protect Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs). Experts warn that India’s current intellectual property (IP) laws fail to address the communal and evolving nature of these traditions.—What Are Traditional Cultural Expressions?Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs) include folk art, music, dance, crafts, and rituals passed down by indigenous communities. They reflect generations of collective creativity. But they often lack a single author or fixed form—two key criteria under India’s copyright and trademark laws. Learn more about TCEs from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).—
Legal Gap in India’s IPR Framework
India’s Copyright Act, 1957 protects works with identifiable authors and finite durations. But TCEs are communal, anonymous, and timeless. As a result, communities cannot claim legal ownership. Trademarks and patents also focus on commercial inventiveness and brand identity—not traditional heritage. Even when designs or art styles are used commercially without consent, communities have limited legal options. A 2023 study published by Harvard ILJ emphasized the mismatch between modern IP tools and ancient traditions.—
The Case for Geographical Indications (GIs)
India has made progress with Geographical Indications (GI) under the GI Act, 1999. Art forms like Madhubani paintings, Warli motifs, and Channapatna toys have secured GI status.But GI protection only applies when a product is clearly linked to a geographical origin. It doesn’t cover broader cultural styles or evolving oral traditions. Moreover, many communities lack resources to register or enforce these rights.Explore registered Indian GIs on the Geographical Indications Registry website.—
Defensive Measures So Far
To prevent bio-piracy and knowledge theft, India established the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) in 2001. It catalogs ancient medicinal knowledge to block false patent claims.Experts now recommend creating a similar database for TCEs. Such a registry could document cultural expressions and acknowledge community origins, discouraging unauthorized use.—
Demand for Sui Generis Protection
Lawmakers and scholars are pushing for a sui generis (custom) law that gives collective and perpetual rights to communities. The law would include:Community ownership and control
Licensing systems for commercial use
Protection against distortion or misuse
Moral rights for attribution
Proposed drafts like the Traditional Knowledge (Protection and Promotion) Bill have surfaced in recent years. However, none have been enacted yet.More on this from Know Law.—
Recent Examples of Cultural Appropriation
In 2023, a major fashion label used tribal designs from Odisha without credit or compensation. Similarly, Bollywood films have used folk music and dances with no benefit to the original communities.These incidents highlight how vulnerable communities are to commercial exploitation. They also fuel calls for urgent legal reform.—The Way Forward
India must strengthen its IP laws to protect its living cultural heritage. Experts recommend:1. Enacting sui generis legislation 2. Building a national TCE registry 3. Supporting community-led IP enforcement 4. Raising awareness through legal aid and education 5. Aligning with global efforts under WIPO frameworks–
Conclusion
India is rich in traditions, but poor in legal tools to protect them. Without timely action, cultural appropriation will continue unchecked. Stronger laws and grassroots empowerment are essential to safeguard the identity and dignity of indigenous communities.—
Disclaimer:
This article is a journalistic synthesis based on publicly available legal sources and policy documents. It is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
ICMR Sets Ambitious Goal to File 10,000 Patents to Boost MedTech Innovation
In a bold move to advance India’s healthcare innovation, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has launched two new initiatives—Patent Mitra and MedTech Mitra. These programs aim to simplify patent filing and promote indigenous medical technologies.
ICMR plans to file 10,000 patents in three years, a tenfold increase from the current average. To achieve this, it has hired 10 top legal firms to guide researchers in patent assessments, filings, and long-term IP support.
Patent Mitra offers services for end-to-end patent handling—from initial evaluation to prosecution and five-year maintenance. MedTech Mitra will assist innovators with clinical validation, regulatory approvals, and connecting with industry for tech transfer.
ICMR will act as a facilitator between researchers and the MedTech industry, ensuring practical use of patented technologies. This approach is expected to reduce India’s reliance on imported devices and foster cost-effective healthcare solutions.
Additionally, ICMR is setting up regional Health Technology Assessment (HTA) units. These will analyze the cost-effectiveness of new health products, helping shape state and national healthcare policies.
ICMR’s Director General, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, emphasized the vision to turn intellectual property into market-ready solutions. The move supports the broader goal of making India a global leader in affordable MedTech innovation.
Delhi High Court Orders Record ₹290 Crore Security Deposit in Patent Case, Strengthens India’s Patentee-Friendly Image
In a landmark decision, the Delhi High Court has directed South Korea-based Ace Technologies Corp to deposit ₹290 crore as a security deposit in a major patent infringement dispute with Canadian company Communication Components Antenna Inc (CCA). This marks the largest security deposit ever awarded in an Indian intellectual property (IP) case.The dispute involves an alleged infringement of CCA’s Indian patent related to telecommunications antennas. The court, while recognizing the seriousness of the claims, took the rare step of ordering a substantial interim monetary deposit. This is aimed at safeguarding the interests of the plaintiff, given that the Korean firm has no significant assets in India.The security deposit amount is roughly 25% of the total damages claimed, which stand at ₹1,160 crore. The court made its decision under Section 151 of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC), using its inherent powers to ensure that any potential final judgment in the case is enforceable.This move follows earlier orders of injunction and smaller deposits against Ace Technologies. The court also noted a 65% drop in Ace Technologies’ valuation and its limited Indian operations, which raised concerns over the enforceability of any final award.
🛡️ India’s Growing IP Enforcement Strength
Legal experts view the ruling as a significant boost to India’s reputation as a patentee-friendly jurisdiction. The order aligns with recent trends of Indian courts, especially the Delhi and Madras High Courts, offering financial remedies and interim safeguards in IP matters, particularly when foreign entities are involved.This case could become a benchmark for future patent disputes, especially in sectors like telecom, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, where foreign companies often face enforcement challenges.
📈 Implications
Strengthens judicial support for patent holders.Encourages foreign innovation and investment in Indian markets.Signals a shift toward global IP standards in enforcement practices.Provides confidence to patentees in seeking interim financial protections, not just injunctions.The court has granted Ace Technologies a four-week deadline to comply with the order. Failure to deposit the amount may lead to further legal consequences, including potential contempt proceedings or escalation of enforcement actions.
📌 Conclusion
This historic decision not only offers relief to the plaintiff but also sends a strong signal to global innovators: India is committed to upholding patent rights and is ready to enforce them through financial guarantees, even at interim stages of litigation.
HMEL Secures Three Patents and Unveils Dual-Transport Pipeline Pigs
HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd (HMEL) has reached a major milestone in the oil and gas sector. The company recently won three key patents. Alongside, it introduced the world’s first dual-transport crude pipeline pigs.
Pipeline pigs are tools used inside pipelines for cleaning and inspection. HMEL’s innovation allows these pigs to transport and manage two different crude oil types simultaneously in the same pipeline.
What Makes Dual-Transport Pipeline Pigs Unique?
Unlike traditional pigs, HMEL’s dual-transport pigs have advanced sensing and navigation systems. These features help clean pipelines and inspect them while carrying two different crude grades separately.
This technology boosts pipeline efficiency. It reduces the need for multiple pipelines and lowers operating costs. Plus, it ensures safer and smoother crude transport.
Details of the Three Patents
HMEL’s patents cover critical innovations:
The design of the dual-transport pig system
The sensor and navigation technology inside the pigs
The process for switching between crude types during transport
These patents secure HMEL’s leadership in pipeline technology and protect their intellectual property.
Benefits of This Innovation
This new system offers several advantages:
Operational efficiency: Handle multiple crude grades in one pipeline
Cost savings: Reduce the need for cleaning and extra pipelines
Enhanced safety: Automated sensors reduce manual checks and risks
HMEL’s Innovation Journey
HMEL is a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd and Mittal Energy Ltd. The company has been focusing on innovation and growth in recent years.
In 2024-25, HMEL achieved record polymer sales of over 2 million tonnes. The company also won two prestigious awards at the Asian Oil & Gas Awards 2024, highlighting its commitment to safety and sustainability.
Industry Impact and Future Plans
Experts see this patent and technology as a game-changer for pipeline operations globally. The ability to transport multiple crude grades safely in a single pipeline could reduce costs and increase flexibility for many operators.
HMEL plans to deploy this technology on its 1,017 km pipeline running from Gujarat to Punjab. There are also plans to license this innovation to other companies worldwide.
Further research and development will focus on integrating AI, digital tools, and green energy technologies like hydrogen.
Conclusion
HMEL’s breakthrough with the dual-transport crude pipeline pigs and three patents marks a key advance in pipeline engineering. This innovation promises greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety in crude oil transport.
As the energy industry evolves, HMEL is positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.
Pipeline pigs are tools used inside pipelines for cleaning and inspection. HMEL’s innovation allows these pigs to transport and manage two different crude oil types simultaneously in the same pipeline.
What Makes Dual-Transport Pipeline Pigs Unique?
Unlike traditional pigs, HMEL’s dual-transport pigs have advanced sensing and navigation systems. These features help clean pipelines and inspect them while carrying two different crude grades separately.
This technology boosts pipeline efficiency. It reduces the need for multiple pipelines and lowers operating costs. Plus, it ensures safer and smoother crude transport.
Details of the Three Patents
HMEL’s patents cover critical innovations:
The design of the dual-transport pig system
The sensor and navigation technology inside the pigs
The process for switching between crude types during transport
These patents secure HMEL’s leadership in pipeline technology and protect their intellectual property.
Benefits of This Innovation
This new system offers several advantages:
Operational efficiency: Handle multiple crude grades in one pipeline
Cost savings: Reduce the need for cleaning and extra pipelines
Enhanced safety: Automated sensors reduce manual checks and risks
HMEL’s Innovation Journey
HMEL is a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd and Mittal Energy Ltd. The company has been focusing on innovation and growth in recent years.
In 2024-25, HMEL achieved record polymer sales of over 2 million tonnes. The company also won two prestigious awards at the Asian Oil & Gas Awards 2024, highlighting its commitment to safety and sustainability.
Industry Impact and Future Plans
Experts see this patent and technology as a game-changer for pipeline operations globally. The ability to transport multiple crude grades safely in a single pipeline could reduce costs and increase flexibility for many operators.
HMEL plans to deploy this technology on its 1,017 km pipeline running from Gujarat to Punjab. There are also plans to license this innovation to other companies worldwide.
Further research and development will focus on integrating AI, digital tools, and green energy technologies like hydrogen.
Conclusion
HMEL’s breakthrough with the dual-transport crude pipeline pigs and three patents marks a key advance in pipeline engineering. This innovation promises greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety in crude oil transport.
As the energy industry evolves, HMEL is positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.