The procedure for licensing copyrighted works in India is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957 and the Copyright Rules, 2013. A copyright license allows a third party to use a copyrighted work under agreed terms and conditions. Types of Copyright Licenses in India Voluntary License – Direct agreement between the copyright owner and licensee. Compulsory License – Granted by the Copyright Board in specific cases (e.g., works withheld from the public). Statutory License – Available for certain works like music and broadcasting under pre-fixed conditions. Procedure for Licensing Copyrighted Works 1. Voluntary License (By Agreement) The copyright owner and the licensee negotiate terms. A written agreement is drafted specifying: Scope of the license (exclusive or non-exclusive). Duration and geographical limits. Royalties or license fees. Rights granted (reproduction, distribution, adaptation, etc.). The agreement should be registered with the Copyright Office (optional but advisable for legal protection). 2. Compulsory License (Application to Copyright Board) If a copyright owner refuses to publish or make the work available, any person can apply for a compulsory license under Section 31 of the Copyright Act. The applicant must file a petition before the Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB). The Board determines the royalty and conditions for using the work. 3. Statutory License (For Broadcasting & Public Performance) Applicable for sound recordings and musical works under Section 31D. Broadcasters can use copyrighted works by paying a pre-determined royalty fixed by the Copyright Board. Key Considerations Exclusive licenses must be registered with the Copyright Office under Section 30. Non-exclusive licenses do not require registration but should be documented properly. Licensing agreements must comply with contract law and intellectual property laws. Conclusion Copyright licensing in India can be voluntary, compulsory, or statutory. The process involves a written agreement for voluntary licensing, while compulsory and statutory licenses require applications to the Copyright Board.

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