The document discusses patents, which are a grant from governments that provide the exclusive right to make, use, or sell an invention for a limited period of time. Key points include:
- A patent is granted for new and useful inventions like processes, machines, manufactured articles, or improvements. It is not granted for ideas or principles.
- The term of an Indian patent is 20 years to encourage research and development. Patents prevent secret exploitation of inventions and allow patentees to legally enforce their rights against infringers.
- The patent process involves filing an application with a provisional then complete specification within 12 months, examination for novelty, opportunity for opposition, and potential grant and sealing of the patent.