Archive · 29 Jan 2026
DPIIT Proposes Amendments to Modernize India's Designs Act
The government of India has proposed changes to the Designs Act, 2000, to make it more modern and in line with global standards.
These changes include protecting virtual designs, giving a 12-month grace period, and allowing for deferred publication of designs for up to 30 months.
The government also wants India to join two international agreements: the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT) and the Hague Agreement.
These changes aim to help startups and small businesses protect their designs globally, making them more competitive.
The government is asking for feedback from stakeholders to help finalize these changes.
DPIIT proposes amendments to modernize India's Designs Act, 2000, aligning it with international best practices.
Key proposals include protection for virtual designs, a 12-month grace period, and deferred publication for up to 30 months.
India aims to accede to the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT) and the Hague Agreement.
DPIIT invites comments and suggestions from stakeholders to facilitate further deliberations.
Proposed changes include revision to the term of protection, multiple designs filings in a single application, and statutory damages for infringement.
- Who
- Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
- What
- Proposed amendments to the Designs Act, 2000
- When
- Concept Note released on Thursday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- New Delhi, India
- Why
- To modernize India’s design protection framework and align it with international best practices
- Proposed Amendments
- Modernize India's design protection framework
- Key Proposals
- Protection for virtual designs, 12-month grace period, deferred publication for 30 months
- International Agreements
- Accession to Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT) and Hague Agreement
- Stakeholder Engagement
- DPIIT invites comments and suggestions from stakeholders
- Term of Protection
- Revision to term of protection and multiple designs filings in a single application
- Initiatives
- Combined with Startup India and SIPP scheme to empower startups and SMEs
- DLT Benefits
- Relaxed time limits, reinstatement of lost rights, simplified procedures for assignments and licenses