Starting May 13, 2025, patent applicants will experience a significant change in the timeline for filing continuation and divisional applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Under the new rule, the window between paying the issue fee and a patent officially issuing will shrink dramatically—from about three weeks to just one week.
For those familiar with the process, this may feel like a significant shift. Previously, applicants had a comfortable amount of time to make key decisions regarding the filing of continuation or divisional applications after paying the issue fee. This period, although not extensive, offered ample opportunity to consider further filings and get the necessary paperwork in order. Now, with the new timeline, applicants will have to act quickly or risk missing the opportunity to file these crucial applications before the parent patent officially issues.
A Major Change for Continuation and Divisional Filings
For those in the patent world, continuation and divisional applications are powerful tools used to refine, expand, or protect different aspects of an invention disclosed in the original patent application. These tools allow applicants to pursue additional claims or protect additional inventions within the same family of patents.
This might happen if an applicant wants broader protection or if new claims emerge that were not included in the original application. A continuation application essentially gives the applicant another opportunity to further develop the patent without starting the process from scratch.
Divisionals, on the other hand, are filed when the USPTO requests the applicant to divide the original application into separate filings because the application covers more than one invention. This is typically seen in cases where the original application is too broad or contains more than one distinct invention.
The critical detail here is that both continuation and divisional applications must be filed before the parent patent is granted. Once the patent issues, the opportunity to file such applications is largely closed, and reopening prosecution after issuance can be costly and difficult.
The New Deadline: A Week to Act
Historically, applicants had about three weeks, sometimes longer, to file continuation or divisional applications after paying the issue fee. This gave them time to review their options, consult with colleagues or patent attorneys, and finalize their strategy before the patent officially issued.
However, with the new rule coming into effect on May 13, 2025, applicants will have only one week between paying the issue fee and the patent issuing. This means the timeline for making decisions has been drastically compressed. The issue fee, which is typically paid after receiving a Notice of Allowance from the USPTO, serves as an indication that the patent is about to be granted. With the tighter timeline, applicants must be ready to act quickly to file continuation or divisional applications—or risk missing the opportunity altogether.
For patent professionals who file these types of applications regularly, this change represents a considerable shift in workflow. The new rule is likely to require better planning, quicker decision-making, and perhaps even a shift in internal procedures to ensure applications are filed on time.
Best Practices for Navigating the Change
While the new rule presents challenges, there are several best practices that applicants can adopt to ensure they stay ahead of the game:
File Before Paying the Issue Fee
This gives ample time to review the strategy and decide on any additional filings. Filing before paying the issue fee ensures that applicants can secure their desired protection without the stress of a shortened timeline.
Incorporate Continuation and Divisional Discussions into the Review Process
Patent applicants should include discussions of continuation and divisional strategies as part of their regular Notice of Allowance review. This can involve consulting with patent attorneys, revisiting claims, and carefully evaluating whether additional applications are necessary.
Set Internal Deadlines
This gives teams time to deliberate and take a more measured approach to filings, without the added pressure of an approaching deadline.
Treat the Issue Fee as a Warning Signal
The issue fee payment should be viewed as a signal to take immediate action, not as a last-minute task. Instead of waiting until the last moment, applicants should be proactive and take time to file any necessary applications well ahead of the fee payment deadline. Procrastination can lead to missed opportunities.
Why the Change Matters
The USPTO’s decision to tighten this filing window is likely a response to the growing complexity of the patent process and the increasing speed at which innovation is occurring.
For applicants, however, this presents a new set of challenges. The need for quick decision-making and a more nimble approach to patent strategy has never been more important. Companies will need to ensure their patent portfolios are managed with greater efficiency and foresight. In particular, patent attorneys and in-house counsel will need to be highly organized to ensure that crucial filings are made within the shortened timeline.
The Bottom Line: Speed and Preparation Are Key
The new rule that takes effect on May 13, 2025, is a significant change that will impact the way patent applicants file continuation and divisional applications. With only one week between paying the issue fee and the patent issuing, applicants must be prepared to act quickly to protect additional claims or inventions.
The smartest strategy is to file continuation and divisional applications before paying the issue fee, giving applicants more time to review and finalize their filing strategy. By setting internal deadlines, planning ahead, and treating the issue fee payment as a cue to take immediate action, patent applicants can ensure they are not caught off guard by the new, shorter timeline.
In the world of patent law, timing is everything—and starting May 2025, those who act early will be best positioned to navigate the new filing requirements.
AI
Indian Patent Granted for Cutting-Edge Drought Monitoring System Using AI, IoT, and Geospatial Technology
In a significant step forward for drought preparedness and management, the Indian Patent Office has granted a patent for an advanced system that utilizes AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and geospatial technologies to monitor and assess drought conditions in real time.
Designed to address the pressing need for accurate and timely drought data—particularly in vulnerable regions like Marathwada, which frequently faces water shortages—the system offers a modern alternative to outdated assessment methods.
“Conventional techniques such as Annewari and Paisewari, while historically relevant, are not equipped to deliver the precision and speed required for effective drought response today,” said Prof. Kale. “These methods often delay estimates until months after crop damage has occurred—December for Kharif and March for Rabi—hampering timely relief efforts.”
The patented technology was the result of collaborative research led by Gaikwad with critical contributions from Dr. Amol Vibhute, Dr. Rajesh Dhumal, and Dr. Rupali Surase. Their innovation integrates satellite-based remote sensing, mobile-based field data collection, and IoT-enabled sensor networks to deliver highly accurate and localized drought assessments.
A pilot implementation of the system was carried out in the Vaijapur tehsil of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, a region known for recurrent droughts. According to Gaikwad, the new system demonstrated strong potential to transform the way droughts are tracked and responded to.
“This solution provides real-time, location-specific insights that can help authorities and farmers take timely preventive measures, ultimately minimizing the agricultural and socio-economic impact of droughts,” Gaikwad explained.
Prof. Kale added that the system is not only scalable but also adaptable for use in other drought-prone areas across India. The team believes that this technology could play a vital role in strengthening the country’s resilience to climate-induced challenges in agriculture.
Designed to address the pressing need for accurate and timely drought data—particularly in vulnerable regions like Marathwada, which frequently faces water shortages—the system offers a modern alternative to outdated assessment methods.
“Conventional techniques such as Annewari and Paisewari, while historically relevant, are not equipped to deliver the precision and speed required for effective drought response today,” said Prof. Kale. “These methods often delay estimates until months after crop damage has occurred—December for Kharif and March for Rabi—hampering timely relief efforts.”
The patented technology was the result of collaborative research led by Gaikwad with critical contributions from Dr. Amol Vibhute, Dr. Rajesh Dhumal, and Dr. Rupali Surase. Their innovation integrates satellite-based remote sensing, mobile-based field data collection, and IoT-enabled sensor networks to deliver highly accurate and localized drought assessments.
A pilot implementation of the system was carried out in the Vaijapur tehsil of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, a region known for recurrent droughts. According to Gaikwad, the new system demonstrated strong potential to transform the way droughts are tracked and responded to.
“This solution provides real-time, location-specific insights that can help authorities and farmers take timely preventive measures, ultimately minimizing the agricultural and socio-economic impact of droughts,” Gaikwad explained.
Prof. Kale added that the system is not only scalable but also adaptable for use in other drought-prone areas across India. The team believes that this technology could play a vital role in strengthening the country’s resilience to climate-induced challenges in agriculture.
Patent Dispute Erupts Over Scavenger Robots: Kerala’s Genrobotics Files Lawsuit Against IIT Madras Startup
A legal battle has broken out in the field of sanitation technology as Genrobotics, a Kerala-based robotics company known for its sewer-cleaning robot ‘Bandicoot’, has taken legal action against a startup incubated at IIT Madras. The dispute centers on alleged patent infringement involving robotic systems designed to eliminate manual scavenging.
The company argues that its patented design and mechanism have been replicated without authorization, potentially undermining years of research and development.
The case highlights growing tensions in India’s deep tech and robotics sectors, where startups and research institutions are increasingly innovating but also entering complex territory involving patents and proprietary technologies.
According to Genrobotics, its invention was created specifically to address the inhumane practice of manual scavenging, offering a safer and more dignified alternative through automation. The company has received widespread recognition and government support for deploying its technology across multiple states.
The IIT Madras startup, whose identity has not been officially disclosed in legal documents, reportedly launched a robotic solution with functions and features that Genrobotics claims are too similar to be coincidental. Genrobotics has approached the courts seeking an injunction against the manufacture, sale, and promotion of the allegedly infringing product.
Industry observers note that this case could set a precedent for how intellectual property rights are enforced in India’s emerging robotics industry. It also raises broader questions about the balance between innovation, open research, and patent protection, particularly in sectors aimed at solving critical social issues.
Neither side has made a detailed public statement yet, but the case is expected to draw attention as it unfolds, especially given the increasing focus on technology-driven solutions in public sanitation.
The company argues that its patented design and mechanism have been replicated without authorization, potentially undermining years of research and development.
The case highlights growing tensions in India’s deep tech and robotics sectors, where startups and research institutions are increasingly innovating but also entering complex territory involving patents and proprietary technologies.
According to Genrobotics, its invention was created specifically to address the inhumane practice of manual scavenging, offering a safer and more dignified alternative through automation. The company has received widespread recognition and government support for deploying its technology across multiple states.
The IIT Madras startup, whose identity has not been officially disclosed in legal documents, reportedly launched a robotic solution with functions and features that Genrobotics claims are too similar to be coincidental. Genrobotics has approached the courts seeking an injunction against the manufacture, sale, and promotion of the allegedly infringing product.
Industry observers note that this case could set a precedent for how intellectual property rights are enforced in India’s emerging robotics industry. It also raises broader questions about the balance between innovation, open research, and patent protection, particularly in sectors aimed at solving critical social issues.
Neither side has made a detailed public statement yet, but the case is expected to draw attention as it unfolds, especially given the increasing focus on technology-driven solutions in public sanitation.
High Courts Should Not Intervene in SARFAESI Proceedings Unless Actions Are Clearly Illegal or Mala Fide: Allahabad High Court
In a recent judgment, the Allahabad High Court emphasized that judicial intervention in matters governed by the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, should be limited to instances where banks have acted either unlawfully or with mala fide intent.
The division bench, comprising Justice Shekhar B. Saraf and Justice Dr. Yogendra Kumar Srivastava, cited the Supreme Court’s ruling in United Bank of India vs. Satyawati Tondon & Others to support its stance. The bench noted, “Interference by this Court in SARFAESI-related issues is not warranted unless a clear case of illegality or bad faith is established on the part of the bank authorities.”
This section empowers financial institutions to recover dues by enforcing security interests if a borrower fails to repay within 60 days after receiving a demand notice under Section 13(2).
The petitioner argued that the bank did not respond to their objection filed under Section 13(3A) before initiating recovery action under Section 13(4). However, upon reviewing the documents submitted, the court found that the bank had issued an order addressing the objection and attempted to serve it via post. Though delivery to two of the petitioners was unsuccessful due to the premises being locked, the court acknowledged that proper service to one petitioner may not have occurred. Despite this, the petitioners had received the Section 13(4) notice and had subsequently challenged it before the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT).
The High Court pointed out that the petitioners initially failed to inform the court that they had already approached the DRT. This fact only came to light through a supplementary affidavit filed later. The court observed that since the petitioners had already sought remedy before the DRT, pursuing the same grievance through a writ petition constituted a case of attempting to “sail in two boats.”
“The existence of an order under Section 13(3A), the efforts made to deliver it, and the petitioners’ acknowledgment of the Section 13(4) notice suggest that they had the opportunity to raise their concerns before the appropriate forum. Having done so, they cannot now bypass that process by invoking the writ jurisdiction of this Court,” the bench observed.
The court further highlighted that the petitioners had already raised the same objections regarding Section 13(3A) in their application before the DRT, rendering their writ plea redundant.
Reaffirming the precedent set by the Supreme Court in Satyawati Tondon, the High Court stressed that although the Constitution allows for writ petitions even where alternate remedies exist, such discretion should be exercised sparingly when an effective statutory mechanism is available.
With no evidence of mala fide conduct by the bank and considering that the asset sale had already occurred, the court found no reason to intervene. Consequently, the writ petition was dismissed.
The division bench, comprising Justice Shekhar B. Saraf and Justice Dr. Yogendra Kumar Srivastava, cited the Supreme Court’s ruling in United Bank of India vs. Satyawati Tondon & Others to support its stance. The bench noted, “Interference by this Court in SARFAESI-related issues is not warranted unless a clear case of illegality or bad faith is established on the part of the bank authorities.”
This section empowers financial institutions to recover dues by enforcing security interests if a borrower fails to repay within 60 days after receiving a demand notice under Section 13(2).
The petitioner argued that the bank did not respond to their objection filed under Section 13(3A) before initiating recovery action under Section 13(4). However, upon reviewing the documents submitted, the court found that the bank had issued an order addressing the objection and attempted to serve it via post. Though delivery to two of the petitioners was unsuccessful due to the premises being locked, the court acknowledged that proper service to one petitioner may not have occurred. Despite this, the petitioners had received the Section 13(4) notice and had subsequently challenged it before the Debts Recovery Tribunal (DRT).
The High Court pointed out that the petitioners initially failed to inform the court that they had already approached the DRT. This fact only came to light through a supplementary affidavit filed later. The court observed that since the petitioners had already sought remedy before the DRT, pursuing the same grievance through a writ petition constituted a case of attempting to “sail in two boats.”
“The existence of an order under Section 13(3A), the efforts made to deliver it, and the petitioners’ acknowledgment of the Section 13(4) notice suggest that they had the opportunity to raise their concerns before the appropriate forum. Having done so, they cannot now bypass that process by invoking the writ jurisdiction of this Court,” the bench observed.
The court further highlighted that the petitioners had already raised the same objections regarding Section 13(3A) in their application before the DRT, rendering their writ plea redundant.
Reaffirming the precedent set by the Supreme Court in Satyawati Tondon, the High Court stressed that although the Constitution allows for writ petitions even where alternate remedies exist, such discretion should be exercised sparingly when an effective statutory mechanism is available.
With no evidence of mala fide conduct by the bank and considering that the asset sale had already occurred, the court found no reason to intervene. Consequently, the writ petition was dismissed.
India Sees 310% Rise in Patent Filings by Startups and MSMEs in Last Five Years
India has witnessed an extraordinary increase in patent filings by startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with data revealing a 310% growth over the past five years. This surge underscores the country’s growing focus on innovation, research, and intellectual property protection among emerging businesses.
According to recent government and industry data, this dramatic rise in patent activity reflects the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at nurturing a robust innovation ecosystem. Supportive policies, such as reduced filing fees, fast-track examination processes, and government-backed awareness programs, have played a critical role in encouraging smaller enterprises and startups to safeguard their inventions.
Experts believe that the increasing participation of startups and MSMEs in patenting not only signals a maturing entrepreneurial landscape but also positions India as a rising innovation hub on the global stage.
Government officials have noted that this trend aligns with the vision of making India self-reliant and technology-driven. The growing number of intellectual property filings by smaller players is also contributing to job creation, export potential, and overall economic growth.
The momentum is expected to continue as more early-stage ventures recognize the strategic value of protecting their intellectual property, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, clean energy, and digital technologies.
According to recent government and industry data, this dramatic rise in patent activity reflects the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at nurturing a robust innovation ecosystem. Supportive policies, such as reduced filing fees, fast-track examination processes, and government-backed awareness programs, have played a critical role in encouraging smaller enterprises and startups to safeguard their inventions.
Experts believe that the increasing participation of startups and MSMEs in patenting not only signals a maturing entrepreneurial landscape but also positions India as a rising innovation hub on the global stage.
Government officials have noted that this trend aligns with the vision of making India self-reliant and technology-driven. The growing number of intellectual property filings by smaller players is also contributing to job creation, export potential, and overall economic growth.
The momentum is expected to continue as more early-stage ventures recognize the strategic value of protecting their intellectual property, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, clean energy, and digital technologies.
India Strengthens Its Global Standing in AI and Patent Innovation: Nasscom’s Patent Pulse 2025 Report
As World Intellectual Property (IP) Day is observed globally, India has emerged as a prominent player in the international innovation ecosystem.
India maintained its rank as the fifth-largest patent filer worldwide in FY24, with over 90,000 patents submitted—a milestone marking seven consecutive years of growth. A notable portion of these patents, more than 25%, are linked to AI technologies, underlining India’s growing reputation as a center for advanced technological development.
The report also reveals a steady rise in the country’s innovation output. India’s patent-to-GDP ratio more than doubled in a decade, increasing from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023. Additionally, India’s share in global patent grants grew from 1.7% in 2022 to 3.8% in 2023—a 149% year-on-year increase.
For the first time, the number of granted patents in India crossed 100,000 in FY24, indicating both enhanced operational efficiency at the Indian Patent Office and an improvement in the quality of applications. A growing share of these filings—over 55%—were submitted by Indian residents, compared to 52.3% the previous year. Contributions from startups, academic institutions, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are playing an increasingly vital role, showing a broadening base of innovation.
Artificial Intelligence remains a major driver of this progress. Since 2010, India has filed more than 86,000 AI-related patents, with filings between 2021 and 2025 rising seven times compared to the 2010–2015 period. Indian entities were responsible for 63% of these filings, signaling strong domestic innovation leadership in AI.
Machine Learning (ML) continues to dominate AI-related patents, accounting for over half of them. Within ML, Generative AI (GenAI) has become a significant focus area. In India, GenAI makes up 28% of AI patents, far exceeding the global average of just 6%, placing the country among the top five globally in this space.
Key sectors driving AI patent activity include transportation, which accounts for more than 70% of AI filings, as well as computer vision and natural language processing, which together represent over 90% of India’s AI-related patents.
India’s grant rate for AI patents stands at only 0.37%, significantly behind global leaders such as the United States and China. The gap is even wider in academia, where the approval rate is just 1%, compared to 40% for corporate applicants.
This gap reflects the need for improved research capabilities, stronger institutional support, and a greater emphasis on producing high-quality intellectual property.
Rajesh Nambiar, President of Nasscom, recognized India’s progress but emphasized that more work is needed. “While the increase in filings and patent office responsiveness are encouraging, delays in approvals and inconsistent patent quality remain barriers to matching global benchmarks,” he stated.
To support ongoing improvements, Nasscom has introduced the IP Enablement Initiative. This program aims to boost IP literacy and infrastructure across academia, startups, and industry. It also calls for policy reforms and a cultural shift to encourage innovation and higher-quality IP creation nationwide.
India maintained its rank as the fifth-largest patent filer worldwide in FY24, with over 90,000 patents submitted—a milestone marking seven consecutive years of growth. A notable portion of these patents, more than 25%, are linked to AI technologies, underlining India’s growing reputation as a center for advanced technological development.
The report also reveals a steady rise in the country’s innovation output. India’s patent-to-GDP ratio more than doubled in a decade, increasing from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023. Additionally, India’s share in global patent grants grew from 1.7% in 2022 to 3.8% in 2023—a 149% year-on-year increase.
For the first time, the number of granted patents in India crossed 100,000 in FY24, indicating both enhanced operational efficiency at the Indian Patent Office and an improvement in the quality of applications. A growing share of these filings—over 55%—were submitted by Indian residents, compared to 52.3% the previous year. Contributions from startups, academic institutions, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are playing an increasingly vital role, showing a broadening base of innovation.
Artificial Intelligence remains a major driver of this progress. Since 2010, India has filed more than 86,000 AI-related patents, with filings between 2021 and 2025 rising seven times compared to the 2010–2015 period. Indian entities were responsible for 63% of these filings, signaling strong domestic innovation leadership in AI.
Machine Learning (ML) continues to dominate AI-related patents, accounting for over half of them. Within ML, Generative AI (GenAI) has become a significant focus area. In India, GenAI makes up 28% of AI patents, far exceeding the global average of just 6%, placing the country among the top five globally in this space.
Key sectors driving AI patent activity include transportation, which accounts for more than 70% of AI filings, as well as computer vision and natural language processing, which together represent over 90% of India’s AI-related patents.
India’s grant rate for AI patents stands at only 0.37%, significantly behind global leaders such as the United States and China. The gap is even wider in academia, where the approval rate is just 1%, compared to 40% for corporate applicants.
This gap reflects the need for improved research capabilities, stronger institutional support, and a greater emphasis on producing high-quality intellectual property.
Rajesh Nambiar, President of Nasscom, recognized India’s progress but emphasized that more work is needed. “While the increase in filings and patent office responsiveness are encouraging, delays in approvals and inconsistent patent quality remain barriers to matching global benchmarks,” he stated.
To support ongoing improvements, Nasscom has introduced the IP Enablement Initiative. This program aims to boost IP literacy and infrastructure across academia, startups, and industry. It also calls for policy reforms and a cultural shift to encourage innovation and higher-quality IP creation nationwide.
IIT Madras Files 417 Patents in 2024–25, Surpassing Director’s Vision of ‘One Patent a Day’
In a remarkable milestone for innovation in India’s academic landscape, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has filed an unprecedented 417 patents during the financial year 2024–25.
The announcement marks a historic achievement for IIT Madras, reaffirming its position as a national leader in research-driven technological innovation and intellectual property (IP) creation.
Vision Turned Reality
The “One Patent a Day” vision was first articulated by Professor V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, who urged faculty and researchers to not only focus on academic excellence but to actively translate their ideas into protected innovations with real-world impact.
“This achievement is not just a number. It reflects the creative energy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and commitment to societal impact that drives our research culture,” said Prof. Kamakoti in a statement. “We are proud to lead by example in integrating innovation with nation-building.”
Record-Breaking Year for Innovation
The 417 patent filings in 2024–25 represent a significant increase from previous years. These patents span a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, including:
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Healthcare diagnostics and medical devices
Clean energy solutions and sustainable materials
Robotics and automation
Smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 applications
Next-generation communication systems
Many of the patents have already been licensed to startups incubated at IIT Madras’ Research Park and incubation centers, contributing to a thriving innovation ecosystem that bridges academia and industry.
Empowering Student and Faculty Innovators
A significant portion of the filings came from student-led projects and interdisciplinary research teams, thanks to initiatives like the Nirmaan pre-incubation program, Centre for Innovation (CFI), and IP awareness workshops organized regularly across departments.
The institute has also strengthened its internal IP support systems, offering legal guidance, funding assistance, and mentoring to convert lab research into patentable inventions.
National and Global Impact
IIT Madras’ patent momentum aligns with India’s growing focus on becoming a global innovation hub. The institute’s contributions are seen as a major force behind India’s rising patent output, particularly in emerging tech areas that are central to the country’s digital and industrial transformation.
In addition, several international collaborations with universities and research institutions in the U.S., Europe, and Asia have helped foster a culture of global research with local relevance.
Looking Ahead
With the “One Patent a Day” goal not only met but surpassed, IIT Madras now sets its sights on commercialization, scalability, and societal deployment of its innovations.
“We don’t just want patents. We want impact,” said Prof. Kamakoti. “Our next big push will be in ensuring these technologies are transferred to industry, implemented in society, and made accessible to all.”
As India pushes forward on its innovation and startup journey, IIT Madras’ achievement serves as a shining example of how academic institutions can be at the heart of transformative change.
The announcement marks a historic achievement for IIT Madras, reaffirming its position as a national leader in research-driven technological innovation and intellectual property (IP) creation.
Vision Turned Reality
The “One Patent a Day” vision was first articulated by Professor V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, who urged faculty and researchers to not only focus on academic excellence but to actively translate their ideas into protected innovations with real-world impact.
“This achievement is not just a number. It reflects the creative energy, interdisciplinary collaboration, and commitment to societal impact that drives our research culture,” said Prof. Kamakoti in a statement. “We are proud to lead by example in integrating innovation with nation-building.”
Record-Breaking Year for Innovation
The 417 patent filings in 2024–25 represent a significant increase from previous years. These patents span a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, including:
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Healthcare diagnostics and medical devices
Clean energy solutions and sustainable materials
Robotics and automation
Smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 applications
Next-generation communication systems
Many of the patents have already been licensed to startups incubated at IIT Madras’ Research Park and incubation centers, contributing to a thriving innovation ecosystem that bridges academia and industry.
Empowering Student and Faculty Innovators
A significant portion of the filings came from student-led projects and interdisciplinary research teams, thanks to initiatives like the Nirmaan pre-incubation program, Centre for Innovation (CFI), and IP awareness workshops organized regularly across departments.
The institute has also strengthened its internal IP support systems, offering legal guidance, funding assistance, and mentoring to convert lab research into patentable inventions.
National and Global Impact
IIT Madras’ patent momentum aligns with India’s growing focus on becoming a global innovation hub. The institute’s contributions are seen as a major force behind India’s rising patent output, particularly in emerging tech areas that are central to the country’s digital and industrial transformation.
In addition, several international collaborations with universities and research institutions in the U.S., Europe, and Asia have helped foster a culture of global research with local relevance.
Looking Ahead
With the “One Patent a Day” goal not only met but surpassed, IIT Madras now sets its sights on commercialization, scalability, and societal deployment of its innovations.
“We don’t just want patents. We want impact,” said Prof. Kamakoti. “Our next big push will be in ensuring these technologies are transferred to industry, implemented in society, and made accessible to all.”
As India pushes forward on its innovation and startup journey, IIT Madras’ achievement serves as a shining example of how academic institutions can be at the heart of transformative change.
AI Boom: Over 86,000 AI Patents Filed Between 2010–2025, Representing Over a Quarter of All Tech Patents
The rapid ascent of artificial intelligence (AI) is not only transforming industries but is also reshaping the intellectual property landscape. Recent data reveals that more than 86,000 AI-related patents have been filed globally between 2010 and 2025, marking a dramatic surge in innovation and investment in the field. These AI patents now account for over 25% of all technology-related patent filings during the same period, underscoring AI’s central role in shaping the future of technology.
Accelerated Growth in AI Innovation
The number of AI patent filings has seen exponential growth, especially in the last five years, driven by breakthroughs in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and generative AI. The surge reflects both the maturity of AI research and its widespread commercial adoption across industries ranging from healthcare and finance to automotive and entertainment.
Leading patent offices, including the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the European Patent Office (EPO), and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), have all reported significant increases in AI-related submissions. China and the United States are at the forefront of this trend, with companies like IBM, Microsoft, Google, Baidu, and Alibaba leading the charge in filing AI innovations.
Key Areas of AI Patent Activity
The 86,000+ patents span a wide range of applications, including:
Autonomous vehicles and driver-assistance systems
AI-powered healthcare diagnostics and drug discovery tools
Smart assistants and voice recognition platforms
AI in cybersecurity, including threat detection and automated response
The expansion of AI into nearly every facet of modern life has fueled demand for proprietary protection, as businesses race to secure their intellectual property in a competitive and fast-moving market.
Implications for the Tech Industry
The fact that more than a quarter of all tech patents in the past 15 years are AI-related signals a major paradigm shift. According to intellectual property analysts, this shift highlights both the strategic importance of AI and the increasing complexity of patent landscapes, which may lead to a rise in patent disputes and licensing negotiations in the near future.
Legal experts warn that the rush to patent AI innovations also raises questions about patent quality, the scope of protection, and ethical considerations, particularly when it comes to inventions generated by AI itself.
The Road Ahead
With ongoing advancements in generative AI, robotics, and quantum computing, the number of AI-related patent filings is expected to keep climbing. Governments and regulatory bodies are also paying closer attention to how AI patents are evaluated, ensuring that innovation is balanced with responsibility and legal clarity.
Accelerated Growth in AI Innovation
The number of AI patent filings has seen exponential growth, especially in the last five years, driven by breakthroughs in machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and generative AI. The surge reflects both the maturity of AI research and its widespread commercial adoption across industries ranging from healthcare and finance to automotive and entertainment.
Leading patent offices, including the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the European Patent Office (EPO), and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), have all reported significant increases in AI-related submissions. China and the United States are at the forefront of this trend, with companies like IBM, Microsoft, Google, Baidu, and Alibaba leading the charge in filing AI innovations.
Key Areas of AI Patent Activity
The 86,000+ patents span a wide range of applications, including:
Autonomous vehicles and driver-assistance systems
AI-powered healthcare diagnostics and drug discovery tools
Smart assistants and voice recognition platforms
AI in cybersecurity, including threat detection and automated response
The expansion of AI into nearly every facet of modern life has fueled demand for proprietary protection, as businesses race to secure their intellectual property in a competitive and fast-moving market.
Implications for the Tech Industry
The fact that more than a quarter of all tech patents in the past 15 years are AI-related signals a major paradigm shift. According to intellectual property analysts, this shift highlights both the strategic importance of AI and the increasing complexity of patent landscapes, which may lead to a rise in patent disputes and licensing negotiations in the near future.
Legal experts warn that the rush to patent AI innovations also raises questions about patent quality, the scope of protection, and ethical considerations, particularly when it comes to inventions generated by AI itself.
The Road Ahead
With ongoing advancements in generative AI, robotics, and quantum computing, the number of AI-related patent filings is expected to keep climbing. Governments and regulatory bodies are also paying closer attention to how AI patents are evaluated, ensuring that innovation is balanced with responsibility and legal clarity.
Ola Group Leads India’s Deep-Tech Charge with Unmatched Patent Portfolio
Ola Group, which operates across ride-hailing, electric mobility, and artificial intelligence, has emerged as a technological frontrunner among India’s startups. The company now holds more than 50% of all patents filed by India’s 117 unicorns, according to data from the Indian Patent Advanced Search (IPAS) System.
Collectively, Indian unicorns have filed just 229 patents—highlighting a relatively modest focus on intellectual property within the startup ecosystem. In contrast, the Ola Group alone has filed over 650 patent applications, with 180 already approved. The majority of these filings come from Ola Electric, the EV-focused arm of the group, which contributes nearly 70-80% of the total.
Ola’s founder, Bhavish Aggarwal, recently commented on the milestone via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
Despite this achievement, 101 of the 117 unicorns in India have reportedly not filed a single patent, underscoring a broader trend of prioritizing market growth and valuations over core technology development.
Leading India’s Deep-Tech Push
In FY23 alone, Ola Electric filed 205 patents, making it the top EV patent filer in India. These filings cover a wide range of areas, including battery technology, vehicle software, artificial intelligence, and advanced safety systems.
Ola Electric has also significantly increased its investment in research and development. The company spent ₹507 crore on R&D in FY23—amounting to 19.3% of its total revenue, a dramatic rise from ₹175 crore the previous year. Looking ahead, the company plans to invest ₹1,600 crore in R&D over FY25 to FY27.
But 650 applied patents is not enough — we’ll be accelerating innovation even more in the coming years!”
Global IP Footprint
Ola’s innovation drive extends beyond India. The group has also secured patents in key international markets, including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, China, and Australia—strengthening its position as a globally competitive tech enterprise.
At a time when much of India’s startup scene remains focused on rapid scale and consumer acquisition, Ola’s focus on proprietary technology and IP development sets it apart as a leader in India’s emerging deep-tech economy.
Collectively, Indian unicorns have filed just 229 patents—highlighting a relatively modest focus on intellectual property within the startup ecosystem. In contrast, the Ola Group alone has filed over 650 patent applications, with 180 already approved. The majority of these filings come from Ola Electric, the EV-focused arm of the group, which contributes nearly 70-80% of the total.
Ola’s founder, Bhavish Aggarwal, recently commented on the milestone via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
Despite this achievement, 101 of the 117 unicorns in India have reportedly not filed a single patent, underscoring a broader trend of prioritizing market growth and valuations over core technology development.
Leading India’s Deep-Tech Push
In FY23 alone, Ola Electric filed 205 patents, making it the top EV patent filer in India. These filings cover a wide range of areas, including battery technology, vehicle software, artificial intelligence, and advanced safety systems.
Ola Electric has also significantly increased its investment in research and development. The company spent ₹507 crore on R&D in FY23—amounting to 19.3% of its total revenue, a dramatic rise from ₹175 crore the previous year. Looking ahead, the company plans to invest ₹1,600 crore in R&D over FY25 to FY27.
But 650 applied patents is not enough — we’ll be accelerating innovation even more in the coming years!”
Global IP Footprint
Ola’s innovation drive extends beyond India. The group has also secured patents in key international markets, including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, China, and Australia—strengthening its position as a globally competitive tech enterprise.
At a time when much of India’s startup scene remains focused on rapid scale and consumer acquisition, Ola’s focus on proprietary technology and IP development sets it apart as a leader in India’s emerging deep-tech economy.
Safe Pro Group Expands Global Patent Portfolio for AI-Powered Threat Detection Technology
Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), a leading provider of AI-driven defense and security technologies with a market capitalization of $37.32 million, announced the successful completion of national phase patent filings across nearly 50 international jurisdictions. This strategic move aims to secure global protection for the company’s proprietary technology that detects small-scale lethal threats—such as landmines and unexploded ordnance—through artificial intelligence and drone imagery.
These filings stem from the company’s International Patent Application No. PCT/US2023/029909, published on March 21, 2024. The new filings mark a significant expansion of Safe Pro Group’s intellectual property, building on its foundational U.S. Patent No. 12,146,729. That patent, valid through 2043, covers 21 specific claims focused on using AI to identify explosive threats within orthomosaic drone images.
This global IP footprint enhances the company’s position in the defense tech sector at a time when geopolitical tensions are raising demand for next-generation threat detection solutions.
Safe Pro Group’s stock has experienced upward momentum, gaining over 10% in the past week, according to data from InvestingPro. The company also maintains a strong liquidity profile, with a current ratio of 3.08, suggesting solid financial health and short-term stability despite ongoing investments.
Expanding the Reach of SPOTD Technology
At the core of Safe Pro’s innovation is its Safe Pro Object Threat Detection (SPOTD) system—a patented AI-powered platform capable of detecting more than 150 types of hazardous items, from anti-personnel mines to improvised explosive devices. The technology is engineered to integrate seamlessly with military command systems, offering real-time alerts through a range of connected devices and communications networks.
“Our patent strategy reflects the rising importance of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems on the battlefield. SPOTD addresses a critical need to accurately identify threats in increasingly complex and dangerous environments.”
Erdberg noted that the SPOTD system’s relevance is further amplified by evolving geopolitical dynamics, including discussions among some NATO countries around the 1997 Landmine Convention, which restricts the use of anti-personnel mines.
Operational Milestones and Government Engagement
Safe Pro Group has recently completed its first data delivery under a U.S. Government contract, leveraging its SpotlightAI™ platform. The dataset, collected over two years of operations in Ukraine, comprises more than 1.29 million drone images and the identification of over 23,000 explosive threats, underscoring the system’s scalability and accuracy in real-world conflict zones.
The company’s services extend beyond defense. This collaboration enhances the utility’s infrastructure inspection capabilities using advanced drone and AI technology—an indication of Safe Pro’s growing footprint in both public and private sectors.
Looking ahead, Safe Pro Group is scheduled to present its landmine detection technology at SAGEEP 2025, a premier conference focused on geophysical engineering and environmental protection. The presentation will spotlight how AI and drone integration are transforming humanitarian demining and security operations.
Positioned for Growth
Backed by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Safe Pro’s AI solutions cater to military, law enforcement, humanitarian, and commercial users. According to InvestingPro, the company achieved a 136% revenue increase over the past 12 months, although it remains in its investment phase with negative earnings as it scales its operations and R&D.
With a robust patent portfolio, growing government partnerships, and AI capabilities that address high-stakes global challenges, Safe Pro Group is positioning itself as a critical player in the next generation of defense and security technologies.
These filings stem from the company’s International Patent Application No. PCT/US2023/029909, published on March 21, 2024. The new filings mark a significant expansion of Safe Pro Group’s intellectual property, building on its foundational U.S. Patent No. 12,146,729. That patent, valid through 2043, covers 21 specific claims focused on using AI to identify explosive threats within orthomosaic drone images.
This global IP footprint enhances the company’s position in the defense tech sector at a time when geopolitical tensions are raising demand for next-generation threat detection solutions.
Safe Pro Group’s stock has experienced upward momentum, gaining over 10% in the past week, according to data from InvestingPro. The company also maintains a strong liquidity profile, with a current ratio of 3.08, suggesting solid financial health and short-term stability despite ongoing investments.
Expanding the Reach of SPOTD Technology
At the core of Safe Pro’s innovation is its Safe Pro Object Threat Detection (SPOTD) system—a patented AI-powered platform capable of detecting more than 150 types of hazardous items, from anti-personnel mines to improvised explosive devices. The technology is engineered to integrate seamlessly with military command systems, offering real-time alerts through a range of connected devices and communications networks.
“Our patent strategy reflects the rising importance of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems on the battlefield. SPOTD addresses a critical need to accurately identify threats in increasingly complex and dangerous environments.”
Erdberg noted that the SPOTD system’s relevance is further amplified by evolving geopolitical dynamics, including discussions among some NATO countries around the 1997 Landmine Convention, which restricts the use of anti-personnel mines.
Operational Milestones and Government Engagement
Safe Pro Group has recently completed its first data delivery under a U.S. Government contract, leveraging its SpotlightAI™ platform. The dataset, collected over two years of operations in Ukraine, comprises more than 1.29 million drone images and the identification of over 23,000 explosive threats, underscoring the system’s scalability and accuracy in real-world conflict zones.
The company’s services extend beyond defense. This collaboration enhances the utility’s infrastructure inspection capabilities using advanced drone and AI technology—an indication of Safe Pro’s growing footprint in both public and private sectors.
Looking ahead, Safe Pro Group is scheduled to present its landmine detection technology at SAGEEP 2025, a premier conference focused on geophysical engineering and environmental protection. The presentation will spotlight how AI and drone integration are transforming humanitarian demining and security operations.
Positioned for Growth
Backed by Amazon Web Services (AWS), Safe Pro’s AI solutions cater to military, law enforcement, humanitarian, and commercial users. According to InvestingPro, the company achieved a 136% revenue increase over the past 12 months, although it remains in its investment phase with negative earnings as it scales its operations and R&D.
With a robust patent portfolio, growing government partnerships, and AI capabilities that address high-stakes global challenges, Safe Pro Group is positioning itself as a critical player in the next generation of defense and security technologies.