In a game-changing reveal at the World IP Day celebrations in New Delhi, Minister Piyush Goyal dropped a policy bombshell: zero fees on all sports-related IP registrations for three years straight. Trademarks, patents, copyrights, designs, traditional knowledge, and GIs in the sports domain are now accessible without cost, kicking off right away. The event’s theme, ‘IP and Sports: Ready, Steady, Innovate!’, set the perfect stage for this pro-innovation push.
Government sources confirm the goal is crystal clear—fuel creativity in sports by slashing hurdles for everyone from budding inventors to skilled craftsmen. Beyond fee waivers, support services will guide applicants through the process, making IP protection simpler and more inclusive. Goyal passionately appealed to the nation: protect your ideas today to build tomorrow’s assets.
Taking center stage was the iconic Kashmir Willow Cricket Bat, a GI pride of Jammu and Kashmir symbolizing India’s artisanal excellence. Goyal advocated for its worldwide branding and expanded manufacturing, alongside cluster developments in key areas like Meerut to ramp up production of essential sports gear. This, he argued, will fortify local businesses and spawn employment waves.
‘ Innovate boldly, secure patents, scale production, and claim prosperity’—Goyal’s mantra resonated strongly. He tied it to global prospects via the India-NZ FTA and launched a dynamic hackathon, ‘Viksit Bharat Digital Matrix 2026’, targeting smart wearables over six months to bridge ideas and reality for young talents.
Sports, Goyal noted, has morphed into a massive economic engine, evidenced by franchise cricket’s value surge. Aligning with Sports Policy 2025, the government is enhancing infrastructure across schools and communities, urging corporates to channel CSR into rural sports facilities and open gyms. India’s sports ecosystem is poised for explosive growth.
