The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM), which oversees India’s intellectual property rights (IPR) framework, has officially shifted its headquarters from Mumbai to Delhi. This strategic move aims to streamline IPR administration, enhance accessibility for stakeholders, and align India’s IP ecosystem with global standards. For businesses, startups, and legal professionals, this relocation brings significant benefits especially for trademark registration and its applicants and owners.
Why the Shift to Delhi?
The relocation of the IPR head quarters to Delhi is part of the Indian government’s broader initiative to centralize and modernize intellectual property governance. Delhi, being the national capital and a hub for legal, technological, and business activities, offers better connectivity for domestic and international stakeholders. The move also aligns with the National IPR Policy (2016), which emphasizes ease of doing business, faster processing, and reduced bureaucratic delays.
Key Benefits for Trademark Users
- Faster Processing & Reduced Delays
One of the biggest challenges in trademark registration has been delays in examination and approval. With the headquarters now in Delhi, closer coordination between the Trademark Registry, Patent Office, and other IP divisions is expected. This integration can lead to:
- Queried examination reports issued sooner (currently taking 6-12 months).
- Faster opposition resolutions (reducing the current 2-4 year timeline).
- Expedited hearings for trademark disputes.