The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that allows businesses and individuals to register their trademarks in multiple countries through a single application. It is part of the Madrid System, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), which provides a streamlined procedure for obtaining trademark protection in multiple jurisdictions. Key Features of the Madrid Protocol: Single Application: A trademark owner can apply for registration in multiple countries by filing a single international application, which is processed by WIPO. Centralized Management: After the initial registration, the trademark can be managed centrally, with changes such as renewals, assignments, or modifications processed through WIPO. Cost-Effective: Instead of applying separately in each country, the Madrid Protocol offers a more cost-effective and simplified method for global trademark protection. How the Madrid Protocol Applies to Indian Trademarks: India is a member of the Madrid Protocol since July 8, 2013. This means that Indian businesses and individuals can file international trademark applications through the Trademarks Registry of India and designate other member countries where they seek protection for their trademarks. How to Use the Madrid Protocol for Indian Trademarks: Basic Application or Registration: To file an international application under the Madrid Protocol, the applicant must have a "basic application" or "basic registration" with the Indian Trademarks Registry. This means that before filing an international application, the applicant must first file for trademark registration in India. Filing the International Application: Once the Indian trademark is registered or the application is pending, the applicant can file an international application with WIPO through the Indian Trademarks Registry. The application will be based on the Indian trademark and will be considered as the "basic mark." The applicant can designate other countries where they seek trademark protection under the Madrid Protocol. Designation of Countries: When filing an international application, the applicant can select the countries or jurisdictions where they want the trademark to be protected. These countries must be members of the Madrid Protocol. The WIPO will examine the application, and each designated country’s trademark office will evaluate the application based on its own laws and requirements. Protection and Enforcement: Once the international registration is granted, the trademark is protected in the designated countries. The protection is subject to the laws and regulations of the individual countries. If any issues arise in any of the designated countries (for example, a refusal of the trademark), the applicant will be notified and can respond accordingly. Trademark protection under the Madrid Protocol is for a period of 10 years, after which it can be renewed. Madrid Protocol Benefits for Indian Businesses: Global Reach: Indian businesses can access protection in over 120 countries by filing a single international application. Simplified Process: Indian businesses can manage their international trademarks through the Indian Trademarks Registry. Cost Efficiency: By using the Madrid Protocol, Indian businesses can save time and money compared to filing separate trademark applications in multiple countries. Centralized Administration: Changes, renewals, or assignments related to the international trademark are processed centrally through WIPO, simplifying the management process. Key Points for Indian Trademark Holders: India as the Office of Origin: Indian businesses or individuals filing for international protection under the Madrid Protocol must file through the Indian Trademarks Registry as their Office of Origin. Time Limit for Response: If any designated country refuses the trademark, the applicant has a time limit to respond to objections. Dependence on Basic Mark: The international registration is dependent on the basic Indian trademark. If the basic Indian trademark is canceled or withdrawn within 5 years, the international registration may be canceled in the affected countries. Conclusion: The Madrid Protocol provides a streamlined, cost-effective way for Indian businesses to protect their trademarks in multiple countries. By leveraging the Madrid System, businesses in India can expand their trademark protection internationally without having to file separate applications in each country. However, it is essential to comply with the necessary formalities and manage the process through the Indian Trademarks Registry.