The Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trademarks has issued a new order, in furtherance of the Draft Patent Rules (reported by us here - http://www.rkdewan.com/newsletterdetails.php?yy=201511 ) whereby the First Statement of objections (FERs) shall be issued by the Controllers electronically i.e. the report will be sent to Patent Agents/Applicant via e-mail only (hardcopies have been done away with). The FER can also be accessed at the Official website-InPass (http://ipindiaservices.gov.in/publicsearch/ ).

The response to the FER can be submitted at the front office counter or vide e-filing system. It is necessary that the Applicants and Agents have submitted their correct and working e-mail address. This digitization will hopefully ensure an efficient and fast system for patent filings India.

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.