New Delhi: Intellectual property registrations linked to sports will be exempt from fees for three years, Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced at the World Intellectual Property Day celebrations in the capital. The initiative covers trademarks, copyrights, patents, designs, traditional knowledge and geographical indications, and takes effect immediately.
The announcement was made during the event themed “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate!”, where the Minister said a formal notification will be issued. He added that facilitation support under existing government schemes will continue to help innovators, students, artisans and other stakeholders file and secure IP rights more easily.
During the valedictory session, the Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy team was felicitated for its historic performance, including a landmark victory after 67 years and a win against eight-time champions Karnataka. The achievement was described as a moment of pride and a reflection of the region’s growing sporting potential.
The Minister linked the team’s success to ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure and create opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that increased investment and development are enabling wider youth participation across sectors, including sports.
Highlighting India’s traditional strengths, he spoke about the Kashmir willow cricket bat, calling it a symbol of craftsmanship and intellectual property strength. He noted that it is among the first and possibly the only sports-related Indian product with a Geographical Indication tag, and stressed the need to promote its manufacturing globally.
The Minister called for the creation of sports manufacturing clusters in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and Meerut, pointing to their potential as major hubs for sports goods. He stressed the need to expand domestic production of items such as bats, balls, hockey equipment and fitness gear to strengthen local value chains.
He also encouraged innovators and students to convert ideas into IP assets at an early stage and seek protection to build value. Referring to the commercial growth of sports, he noted the rising valuation of franchise-based cricket teams over the past 18 years.
Mentioning recent global developments, he referred to the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and noted the milestone of 100 years of sporting ties between the two countries. He reiterated the guiding principle of “innovate, patent, produce and prosper,” urging stakeholders to use expanding global opportunities.
The Minister also launched the Viksit Bharat Digital Matrix 2026 Design Hackathon, a six-month initiative focused on smart wearables. Organised by DPIIT in collaboration with IIT Delhi, the programme aims to encourage development of next-generation solutions that combine technology, design and intellectual property.
The hackathon is designed to promote innovation that can be protected through patents and design rights, enabling participants to translate ideas into real-world applications.
Speaking on India’s broader sporting ambitions, he referred to cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics and India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games. He encouraged greater participation of youth, including from Jammu and Kashmir, in global sporting platforms.
He also highlighted the economic significance of sports, noting the rapid growth in viewership and the emergence of new formats. Referring to the Sports Policy 2025, he spoke about efforts to strengthen infrastructure, promote sports at the school level and ensure wider access.
The Minister urged increased use of Corporate Social Responsibility funds for sports development, including setting up open gyms and expanding infrastructure in remote areas. He also advised sportspersons and influencers to be responsible in endorsements, especially in areas such as nutrition and supplements.
The event featured interactive sessions including a sports IP quiz, a workshop on advertising and endorsements, and discussions on the “Future of IP & Sports” with participation from international IP offices. A Sports Innovation Arena showcased developments in sports technology, manufacturing and esports.
BI Bureau
