Exclusive Rights

• Design registration grants the owner exclusive rights to apply the design to the registered article.
  
• The owner can legally stop others from copying or imitating the design.
  
• Only the registered proprietor has the right to manufacture, sell, or distribute the design-applied product.
  
• The protection is applicable within the territory of India.
  
• It allows commercial exploitation of the design without unauthorized competition.
  

Legal Enforcement

• The registered proprietor can initiate legal action against infringers.
  
• Remedies include injunctions to stop further use and claims for damages or compensation.
  
• The owner can sue for recovery of profits earned by the infringer.
  
• Seizure and destruction of infringing goods may also be ordered by the court.
  
• Enforcement is possible only if the design is valid and in force.
  

Duration of Protection

• The initial term of protection is ten years from the date of registration.
  
• It is extendable by an additional five years through timely renewal.
  
• The total period of protection is fifteen years.
  
• During this time, the design remains a legally protected intellectual property asset.
  
• After expiration, the design enters the public domain and loses exclusive rights.
  

Commercial Benefits

• The registration enhances the market value of products through distinctive design.
  
• It increases customer appeal and brand differentiation.
  
• The owner can license or assign the design for revenue generation.
  
• Registered designs can be used as collateral in business transactions.
  
• It provides a competitive edge by protecting innovative visual elements.
  

Recognition and Public Record

• The registered design is published in the Designs Journal for public notice.
  
• It is recorded in the Register of Designs maintained by the Controller of Designs.
  
• The registration creates a legal presumption of ownership.
  
• It serves as documented proof in enforcement, assignment, or valuation matters.
  

Public registration deters infringement by making rights visible to competitors.