1. Supreme Court Clarifies Copyright vs. Design Scope (Cryogas vs. Inox)
July 7–8, 2025
Source: Verdictum
The Supreme Court delivered a landmark ruling in Cryogas Equipment Pvt. Ltd. v. Inox India Ltd., affirming that copyright protection for industrial drawings doesn’t automatically preclude design registration. This two-pronged test sets critical precedent for patent and design strategy.
Why it matters: It reinforces the importance of selecting the correct IP route for technical illustrations, crucial for engineering firms and manufacturing startups.
2. Delhi HC Reverses Yamaha’s Trademark Rejection
June, 2025
Source: SCC Online
Bombay High Court, June 2025 set aside a registry refusal of Yamaha’s “WR” trademark, ruled similar to Honda’s “WRV”. The court emphasized Yamaha’s global reputation and ordered the Registrar to publish the application under Section 20(1) for objections
Why it matters: Highlights that international usage and goodwill can influence trademark registration decisions—even if similarity exists—vital for brands expanding in India.
3. Karnataka Governor Calls for IP Centres at Universities
July, 2025
Source: TOI
Governor Gehlot urged Karnataka universities to establish dedicated IP centres, citing the vast startup ecosystem (110,000+ firms) but low IP adoption. He encouraged institutional intervention to commercialize innovation.
Why it matters: Aligns with national IP priorities and RAS Intellect’s mission to embed IP infrastructure within academic ecosystems.
4. IIT Indore Develops Hardware IP Security via DNA Watermarks
July 8, 2025
Source: TOI/Asia IP
Researchers at IIT Indore have created a DNA-like fingerprint watermarking technology to embed unique, tamper-proof identities in hardware IP (e.g., medical devices, DSP chips).
Why it matters: Offers a pioneering solution for hardware piracy—empowering deep-tech firms and campuses to secure their designs with science-driven authenticity.
