Recent Developments in Pharma & Life Sciences IP in India
Quarter 1 of 2026 saw major court and policy developments shaping pharma and life sciences IP in India. This March edition covers biosimilar injunction standards, post-expiry patent revocation, export-manufacturing risk, key pharma trademark disputes, and fresh CGPDTM/DPIIT updates—with practical takeaways for innovators, generics, and healthcare brands.
5 IP Shifts Indian Brands Can’t Ignore
India’s IP landscape moved faster than many brand owners realise in late 2025. This edition of our IPR newsletter breaks down five key shifts – from India’s first smell mark and tougher protection for well-known trademarks, to rising AI deepfake/personality rights disputes, expanding copyright battles, and stricter scrutiny of patent procedure and Section 12A.
Key IP Developments in India – Trademarks, Patents & Pharma Cases
This issue reviews a series of landmark cases addressing trademark disputes, clarity in patent prosecution, and enforcement of biosimilar patents in tightly regulated sectors.
PRADA vs. Kolhapuri Chappals: What the Bombay High Court Said About GI Rights
When global fashion house PRADA unveiled its “Toe Ring Sandals,” Indian legal circles took notice — the design bore an uncanny resemblance to the iconic Kolhapuri chappals, a handcrafted footwear tradition protected by a Geographical Indication (GI) tag since 2009.
In this high-profile case, a group of public interest advocates challenged the alleged cultural appropriation, citing violations of GI law and constitutional protections. Although the Bombay High Court dismissed the PIL on procedural grounds, the case spotlighted critical questions around IP enforcement, artisan rights, and the global recognition of India’s traditional heritage.
How Intellectual Property Rights Can Protect Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Heritage
Traditional knowledge is more than folklore — it’s intellectual capital passed down through generations.
From the healing power of turmeric to the artistry of Channapatna toys, India’s rich heritage holds immense cultural and economic value. Yet much of it remains vulnerable to misappropriation.
In this in-depth article, we explore how intellectual property rights (IPR) — including patents, geographical indications, and defensive documentation — can be used to protect traditional knowledge and empower indigenous communities. With real-world case studies like the turmeric patent reversal and the fight for GI tags, this piece reveals the urgent need for legal frameworks that respect both innovation and tradition.
India IP Updates – Patent & Trademark
India’s IP courts are setting important new benchmarks—from tighter patent drafting rules to stronger trademark enforcement and a growing public health focus in pharma cases. Our June 2025 IP Newsletter highlights the key rulings and strategic takeaways for global businesses navigating India’s evolving IP landscape.
Regulating AI in India: Challenges, Initiatives, and Path to Future Success
As Artificial Intelligence reshapes industries, India is working towards a balanced regulatory framework that fosters innovation while addressing risks like data privacy, bias, and accountability.
Navigating the Future of IP Law: Technology, Reform, and Brand Protection
In the fast-evolving field of Intellectual Property (IP) law, keeping pace with technological advancements and regulatory reforms is critical for protecting the rights of individuals and businesses alike.
Look a-like sound a-like (lasa) drugs: a multifaceted challenge
Explore the multifaceted challenges of Look-Alike Sound-Alike (LASA) drugs in our latest newsletter. Discover the legal and safety implications within the pharmaceutical industry, recent regulatory efforts in India, and comprehensive strategies to mitigate risks. Learn how technology, education, and regulatory frameworks are shaping a safer future for medications.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. v. Delhi Airport Metro Express Pvt Ltd.
In the landmark case of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. v. Delhi Airport Metro Express Pvt. Ltd., the Supreme Court of India, on April 10, 2024, set aside an INR 8000 Crore arbitral award using its curative jurisdiction. This judgment revolved around a 2008 Concession Agreement and highlighted the boundaries of judicial review in arbitration.
The Supreme Court found the arbitral award patently illegal due to the unreasonable interpretation of the termination clause, neglect of vital evidence, and insufficient reasoning. This ruling underscores the need for careful balance in arbitration, ensuring justice while limiting judicial interference. Such measures are crucial for India’s ambition to be a global arbitration hub and an attractive destination for foreign investment.
