Tatkal Window opened by Union Government

The Union Government on 17 May 2016 opened up a Tatkal Window to expedite examination of patent applications by start-ups as well as entities choosing India for the first filing of patent. The move came in the backdrop of 2.37 lakh patent applications pending in the country. The government is aiming to bring down the time period for initial examination of patent applications from the present 5-7 years to 18 months by March 2018. The move will popularise India as a patent filing hub so that more companies file applications in India. Highlights of the Tatkal Window for Expedited examination • Under the tatkal-like system, applicants can opt for the Expedited Examination Route on the grounds that they have chosen India as International Searching Authority or International Preliminary Examining Authority. • The expedited examination route is also available to all entities that qualify as a start-up as per the definition for start-up provided in the Patent Rules. • Under the expedited examination route, the fees for individuals and start-ups have been fixed at 8000 rupees, while for small firms it is 25000 rupees and for large companies, the fee is 60000 rupees. • The applications for this route have to be filed only electronically.