India has significantly enhanced its patent processing capabilities, a strategic move aimed at fostering innovation and aligning with global standards in intellectual property (IP) administration. This development comes amid soaring patent activity worldwide, particularly in the United States and China, which continue to dominate the landscape of patent filings and grants.
According to data from the fiscal year 2023–24 (FY24), the United States granted approximately 3.15 lakh (315,000) patents out of 5.98 lakh (598,000) applications filed, indicating a strong approval rate and a robust IP infrastructure. Meanwhile, China granted an even more staggering 9.21 lakh (921,000) patents from a total of 16.78 lakh (1.678 million) filings. Despite the high volume, only about 3 lakh (300,000) of China’s granted patents are considered high quality, as clarified by Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM).
Sanyal attributed this discrepancy in quality and efficiency to a key factor: manpower. “The quality and speed of patent processing are directly linked to the capacity and training of examiners. Countries that have invested heavily in human resources, such as the US and China, are reaping the benefits,” he noted during a recent policy discussion on India’s innovation ecosystem.
India, acknowledging this global trend and the strategic importance of a streamlined IP regime, has taken decisive steps to scale up its patent examination and processing capabilities. In recent years, the government has doubled down on recruiting and training patent examiners, improving infrastructure, and digitizing application processes through the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (CGPDTM).
This effort is already showing signs of progress. In FY24, India witnessed a rise in patent grants and a reduction in the average time taken to process applications. While India’s absolute numbers still trail behind those of the US and China, the focus on quality over quantity is beginning to pay off. Intellectual property experts highlight that India’s patent grants are increasingly aligned with international standards, enhancing their enforceability and commercial value.
Sanyal emphasized that boosting IP processing is not just a bureaucratic necessity but a strategic imperative. “A well-functioning IP system encourages startups, attracts foreign investment, and promotes research and development. It’s about creating a virtuous cycle of innovation,” he said.
India’s aspirations to become a global innovation hub rest significantly on its ability to manage intellectual property efficiently. With the government’s concerted push and growing awareness among innovators and entrepreneurs, India is gradually strengthening its position in the global IP hierarchy.
As the world moves deeper into the knowledge economy, the capacity to process patents swiftly and with precision will be a key determinant of national competitiveness. India’s recent efforts, driven by both policy intent and institutional reform, suggest that the country is on the right path to meet this challenge head-on.