Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Wednesday announced a three-year waiver of intellectual property (IP) registration fees for the sports sector, along with a special drive to promote IP awareness and protection in the industry. The move is aimed at encouraging innovation and safeguarding the rights of sportspersons, coaches, and manufacturers of sports equipment.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
The waiver covers patents, trademarks, designs, and geographical indications (GI) related to sports. The special drive will include workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to educate stakeholders about the importance of IP registration and its benefits.
Benefits for the Sports Sector
- Cost Reduction: Waiving fees for three years will significantly reduce the financial burden on individuals and entities in the sports sector, encouraging more IP filings.
- Innovation Boost: By protecting intellectual property, the initiative aims to foster innovation in sports technology, equipment, and training methods.
- Global Competitiveness: Enhanced IP protection can help Indian sports brands compete globally and attract foreign investment.
Implementation Plan
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will oversee the implementation. A dedicated portal for sports-related IP filings will be set up, and expedited examination processes will be introduced. The special drive will run concurrently with the fee waiver period.
Industry Reactions
Stakeholders have welcomed the move. The Sports Goods Export Promotion Council (SGEPC) said it will encourage domestic manufacturing and exports. Former athletes and coaches also expressed optimism, noting that it will help protect indigenous sports innovations.
The minister urged all stakeholders to take advantage of the scheme and contribute to making India a global hub for sports manufacturing and innovation.
