What is Copyright?

Copyright is a legal right granted to the creator of original works of authorship, such as literary, dramatic, musical, artistic works, and certain other intellectual works. It gives the creator the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, and license the work, as well as to authorize others to do the same. Copyright protection typically lasts for the lifetime of the author plus 60 years after their death.

The Copyright Registration Procedure in India

The process of copyright registration in India is designed to formally recognize the rights of the creator over their work and to provide legal evidence of ownership.

• 1. Creation of the Work:

  The first step in copyright protection is the creation of the original work. Copyright protection is automatic upon creation, meaning that the work does not need to be registered to be protected. However, registration provides legal evidence of ownership, which is important in case of disputes.

• 2. Filing the Copyright Application:

  To register a copyright, the creator must file a copyright application with the Copyright Office in India. The application can be filed online or physically at the Copyright Office. The application must include the following details:

  • * Type of Work: The category under which the work falls (e.g., literary, artistic, musical, etc.).
  • * Title of the Work: The name or title of the work being registered.
  • * Author's Name and Address: Details of the creator of the work.
  • * Statement of Particulars: A detailed description of the work, including any previous publications or registrations.
  • * Copies of the Work: Depending on the type of work, copies may need to be submitted (e.g., manuscripts for literary works, recordings for musical works).
• 3. Payment of Fees:

  Along with the application, the prescribed fee must be paid. The fee varies depending on the type of work and whether the application is being filed by an individual or a company.

• 4. Examination of the Application:

  Once the application is filed, the Copyright Office examines the details provided to ensure that the work is eligible for copyright protection and that all formalities have been complied with. If any discrepancies or objections are found, the applicant is notified and given an opportunity to resolve them.

• 5. Publication in the Copyright Journal:

  If the application is accepted, the work is published in the Copyright Journal. This allows for any third parties to raise objections to the registration. If no objections are raised within 30 days, the registration process moves forward.

• 6. Grant of Copyright Registration:

  If there are no objections or if objections are resolved in favor of the applicant, the Copyright Office issues a Certificate of Registration, officially registering the copyright. The registration serves as legal evidence of ownership, making it easier to enforce rights in case of infringement.

Fee Structure for Copyright Registration in India

The fee structure for copyright registration in India varies depending on the type of work being registered and the nature of the applicant (individual or entity).

• 1. Literary, Dramatic, Musical, and Artistic Works:
  
  

  * For Individuals:
  ₹500 per work

• 2. Cinematographic Films:
  
  

  * For Individuals:
  ₹5,000 per film

• 3. Sound Recordings:
  
  

  * For Individuals:
  ₹2,000 per recording

• 4. Software/Computer Programs:
  
  

  * For Individuals:
  ₹5,000 per program