Under the (Indian) Copyright Act, 1957 following "work" are protected:

  • Artistic work including
    • a painting or a sculpture,
    • a drawing including a diagram, map, chart or plan,
    • an engraving,
    • a photograph,
  • A work of architecture or artistic craftsmanship,
  • Dramatic work,
  • Literary work including
    • computer programmes,
    • tables,
    • compilations
    • and computer databases,
  • Musical work (including music as well as graphical notation),
  • Sound recording and
  • Cinematograph film.

The judiciary has also been active about the protection of copyright of foreign authors/ owners, which includes software and their source code, motion pictures including screen play of motion pictures and database maintained by Professional firms and business organizations.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.