Starbucks, New Delhi Television (NDTV) and Economic Times are among the five brands recently declared well-known trademark by Intellectual Property Office on applications filed by the holding companies of these brands. .The notification also declared Matrix Cosmec Private Limited and T.T. (RIKHAB CHAND JAIN) as well-known trademarks.The declaration was announced in the weekly trademarks journal on April 14. "The Trade Marks at Sr. No. 01to 05 were published earlier in the Trade Mark Journal u/r 124 (4) of Trade Marks, Rules 2017, and either no objections were filed by any person or objections, if filed, were subsequently withdrawn. In view of the above, it is decided to include following marks in the list of well-known trademarks as per rules," the declaration said. .Well-known trademarks represent a special category under intellectual property law that provides enhanced protection to brands with significant market recognition and reputation. Unlike regular trademarks that generally protect within specific product or service categories, well-known trademarks receive broader protection across diverse sectors, even in areas where the brand may not currently operate.This designation offers protection against dilution, misrepresentation, and unfair advantage by third parties, preventing the use of similar marks even for unrelated goods and services. The recognition acknowledges the substantial investment made by companies in building brand equity and consumer trust.The process for designating a trademark as "well-known" in India follows a structured procedure under Rule 124 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2017. Applicants must submit a request to the Registrar of Trade Marks along with substantial documentation demonstrating the mark's widespread recognition..The evaluation includes assessment of factors such as:Duration, extent, and geographical area of use;Market recognition and reputation;Value associated with the mark;Records of successful enforcement actions;Recognition by courts or authorities as well-known.After initial evaluation, the proposed well-known marks are published in the Trade Mark Journal for public notification. This opens a period during which any person may file objections against the designation. If no objections are received or if objections are subsequently withdrawn, the Registrar may proceed to include the trademark in the list of well-known marks..Over the years, India has recognised numerous well-known trademarks across various sectors. Some prominent examples include:Technology giants like Google, Microsoft and Apple;Automotive brands including Honda, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz;Consumer goods companies such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Nestle;Hospitality chains like Taj Hotels and ITC;Financial institutions including ICICI, HDFC, and State Bank of India;E-commerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart.
