Learn how to conduct an official trademark search on the IP India public database. Avoid name rejection issues by checking brand availability, classification, and trademark criteria.
Conducting a thorough public search on the IP India database is the critical first step before filing Form TM-A. Search using Wordmark ('Contains' and 'Start With'), Phonetic Search to catch sound-alike marks, and Vienna Code classification for device logos.
Trademarks are categorized under 45 international Nice classes: Classes 1 to 34 cover physical goods and commodities, while Classes 35 to 45 cover commercial services (e.g. Class 35 for business/e-commerce, Class 42 for software development). Selecting the correct class is vital to securing statutory protection.
Section 9 prohibits marks lacking distinctive character or descriptive laudatory words. Section 11 bars identical or deceptively similar marks in identical or related goods/services classes.
Official Reference: Trade Marks Registry, Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (IP India).
Reviewed by: FilingBy IP & Trademark Attorneys. Last updated: August 2026.