An invention relating either to a product or process that is new, involving inventive steps and capable of industrial application can be patented. However, it must not fall into the categories of inventions that are non- patentable under sections 3 and 4 of the Act.

An invention is patentable subject matter if it meets the following criteria –

(i) It should be novel.

(ii) It should have inventive steps or it must be non-obvious.

(iii) It should be capable of Industrial application.

(iv) It should not attract the provisions of section 3 and 4 of the Patents Act 1970.

It is not necessary to visit the patent office to file the application as an online filing facility is provided. Only in case the application is required to be filed offline, the same can be filed physically at the counter of the Office. Moreover, all the communications with the office are made through emails. However, hearing proceedings relating to patent application can be attended with prior appointment on any working day during prosecution stage.