Gayatri

Gayatri is the Analyst for IP News, specializing in complex litigation and policy developments in intellectual property ecosystem. Expertise and Background Gayatri holds a Master’s degree. Her professional experience spans focusing on the intersection of pharmaceutical patents, trademark jurisprudence, and digital rights enforcement. Focus Areas: Patents Act 1970, Trademark Act 1999, Delhi High Court litigation analysis, and the enforcement of statutory standards like Section 3(d) (efficacy) and the Bolar exemption. Analytical Approach: Gayatri's reporting is distinguished by its meticulous breakdown of court orders, transforming complex legal language into actionable insights for the corporate, scientific, and legal communities. She uses the latest case law and judicial trends to provide readers with accurate, forward-looking analysis of the Indian legal landscape.

Rajasthan High Court: Registrar Cannot Remove Trademark Without Serving Notice

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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

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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:

  1. Reserve: The payer locks funds for the transaction.
  2. Pay: The transaction is digitally signed offline.
  3. 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Apple Patents Stylus That Draws in Air – No Screen or Surface Needed

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Apple has secured a groundbreaking new patent for a next-generation stylus. Unlike traditional Apple Pencils, this new device doesn’t require a screen or even a surface to operate. According to the patent filing, the stylus is capable of writing or drawing in mid-air using a combination of advanced sensors and optical tracking technology.

This innovation could reshape how we interact with digital devices across the Apple ecosystem.

How the Air-Draw Stylus Works
The newly patented stylus is packed with cutting-edge tech. It uses a blend of:

Optical flow sensors: Similar to those in computer mice, these detect movement in 3D space.

Built-in cameras or infrared sensors: These track positioning and tilt.

Pressure-sensitive tip: Detects when the stylus touches or hovers above a surface.

Motion sensors and accelerometers: Help log strokes, speed, and direction.

Triangulation from external devices: iPhones, iPads, or Vision Pro could help track the stylus in real time using external cameras or signals.

This powerful combination allows the stylus to operate up to 10 cm above a surface, capturing movement and gestures precisely.

Potential Uses for the Stylus
Apple’s air-drawing stylus could unlock several exciting applications:

Draw or write in mid-air
Users can sketch freely without touching any surface. The content appears directly on a connected screen.

Turn any surface into a canvas
Tables, walls, or even paper could serve as drawing platforms.

3D object creation
Ideal for designers and developers working with AR or VR, allowing users to build or sketch in 3D space.

Mixed reality integration
With devices like the Vision Pro, the stylus could be used for more immersive interactions and spatial computing.

Why It’s a Big Deal
This patent pushes Apple deeper into the world of spatial computing. A stylus that works without a touchscreen removes barriers between creativity and technology. It gives users more freedom to interact, design, and work from anywhere.

For creative professionals, educators, and developers, this could be a game-changer.

It also aligns with Apple’s growing ecosystem of interconnected devices—especially as the company explores more applications in AR/VR and spatial interfaces.

Still Just a Patent—For Now
It’s important to note that this stylus is not a product yet. Apple often patents experimental technologies that never reach the market. However, the detailed design and potential use cases suggest that this concept is part of a broader strategy.

The tech giant may be preparing to expand its input devices to meet the future of immersive computing.

Conclusion
Apple’s new stylus patent opens the door to a future where drawing and writing happen in mid-air. No screens. No surfaces. Just pure interaction in space. If this device becomes a reality, it could revolutionize the way we use styluses and redefine digital input forever.

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to innovate in the world of spatial computing.

MS Dhoni Faces Legal Opposition Over ‘Captain Cool’ Trademark Application

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Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s move to trademark the nickname “Captain Cool” has hit a legal hurdle. A Delhi-based law firm, KAnalysis Attorneys at Law, has officially opposed his application before the Indian Trade Marks Registry.

Trademark Application Under Fire

Dhoni filed the application for “Captain Cool” under Class 41, which includes entertainment, sports training, and cultural activities. The application was initially submitted on June 5, 2023, and it was advertised in the Trade Marks Journal on June 16, 2025.

However, within the legal window of 120 days, the law firm filed an opposition under Section 21 of the Indian Trade Marks Act, 1999.

Grounds for Opposition

The opposition is based on four major grounds:

  1. Procedural Irregularities:
    The application was first filed as “proposed to be used” but later amended to claim use since 2008. According to the law firm, Dhoni’s team failed to provide documentary proof such as invoices, promotional material, or usage evidence.
  2. Lack of Commercial Evidence:
    The law firm alleges that Dhoni has not demonstrated any actual commercial use of the term “Captain Cool” for services under Class 41.
  3. Generic Nature of the Phrase:
    The term “Captain Cool” is widely used in the sporting world. The opposition argues that it is descriptive and not distinctive, even citing other athletes like Arjuna Ranatunga who were referred to by similar names in the past.
  4. Improper Acceptance by Registry:
    The firm questions the trademark registry’s decision to accept the application without issuing required rectification notices and despite unresolved prior entries.

What Lies Ahead?

This legal challenge now triggers formal proceedings. Both parties will need to submit evidence, arguments, and attend hearings. If Dhoni cannot prove the distinctiveness and commercial use of “Captain Cool,” the application may be rejected.

On the other hand, if the opposition fails or is withdrawn, Dhoni could receive exclusive rights over the nickname.

Background and Branding Potential

MS Dhoni is widely known by the nickname “Captain Cool” due to his calm demeanor during high-pressure matches. Fans have long associated the term with him. Securing the trademark would enable Dhoni to use it for merchandise, sports academies, media projects, and more.

The move is seen as part of a broader trend among celebrities to monetize their personal brands. Examples include Michael Jordan’s “Air Jordan” and Cristiano Ronaldo’s “CR7”.

Conclusion

While Dhoni’s “Captain Cool” tag is beloved by fans, the current legal dispute highlights the complexities of celebrity nickname trademarks. For the trademark to succeed, Dhoni must now convince the registry that “Captain Cool” is uniquely associated with him in a commercial sense.

Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available information and legal filings. It does not constitute legal advice. All opinions and interpretations expressed herein are for informational purposes only.

PG College Professors Receive Patent for Innovative EV Battery Design — Know the Key Features

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In a significant step toward technological innovation and environmental sustainability, two professors from PG College, Firozabad, have been granted a patent for their advanced electric vehicle (EV) battery design. This design aims to improve safety, efficiency, and durability in EV batteries, potentially marking a major breakthrough in India’s green mobility sector.Meet the Innovators: Prof. N.K. Tiwari and Dr. J.P. SharmaThe patent has been awarded to Prof. N.K. Tiwari of the Physics Department and Dr. J.P. Sharma from the Chemistry Department. The two academics collaborated to develop a next-generation battery design that addresses critical issues faced by conventional EV batteries.Key Features of the Battery Design1. Fire-Resistant Structure – The battery is designed to prevent fire hazards due to overheating or internal short circuits.2. Extended Backup Time – It provides longer battery life compared to traditional EV batteries.3. Fast Charging Capability – The design supports significantly faster charging cycles.4. Eco-Friendly Materials – The battery uses components that are safer for the environment and reduce toxic emissions.

Words from the Inventors

Prof. Tiwari explained, “We developed this battery keeping India’s climate and traffic conditions in mind. The goal is to make a product that is not only safe and efficient but also suitable for Indian roads and EV systems.”

National Recognition

The patent has drawn attention at the national level, earning the professors accolades from both academic and scientific communities. The college administration also lauded the achievement, calling it a moment of pride that could inspire startups and industries working in EV technology.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information (source: Patrika News). The facts have been adapted for clarity and originality. Readers are advised to consult official patent documentation or experts for technical validation.