*Govt waives sports IP registration fees for 3 years
Excelsior Sports Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Apr 28: Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal today felicitated the J&K Ranji Trophy team for its historic performance, describing the achievement as a “moment of pride” and a reflection of the region’s growing sporting potential.
The team was honoured at a World Intellectual Property Day event here, where Goyal highlighted their landmark victory, including a win over eight-time champions Karnataka cricket team.
He said the breakthrough after decades signals renewed confidence and emerging opportunities for youth in J&K.
“The achievement reflects the changing landscape of sports in J&K and is expected to inspire greater participation among young athletes at both national and international levels,” the minister said.
Goyal noted that the performance comes amid sustained efforts to improve infrastructure and expand avenues for youth engagement in the Union Territory.
He said investments in sectors such as sports, tourism and industry are contributing to a more enabling environment for talent to flourish.
Highlighting the broader significance of the achievement, the minister said the success of the J&K team demonstrates the potential of the region to produce high-level athletes.
He added that such milestones not only bring recognition but also help build confidence among aspiring sportspersons.
The minister also underscored the importance of supporting emerging talent through policy initiatives and institutional backing, stating that continued focus on grassroot development would be key to sustaining momentum in the sports sector.
On the sidelines of the event, Goyal announced a three-year waiver on fees for all sports-related intellectual property (IP) registrations, aimed at promoting innovation in the sports ecosystem.
The waiver will cover trademarks, copyrights, patents, designs and geographical indications, and is expected to benefit innovators, students and stakeholders across the country.
He said the Government would also extend facilitation support under existing schemes to assist applicants in securing IP rights, thereby easing their entry into the innovation ecosystem.
The minister further highlighted the GI-tagged Kashmir willow cricket bat as a symbol of India’s craftsmanship and intellectual property strength, calling for its wider promotion in global markets and increased manufacturing within J&K.
He also stressed the need to develop sports manufacturing clusters in regions such as J&K to boost domestic production and strengthen local value chains.
The event also featured interactive sessions and discussions on the future of intellectual property in sports, with participation from stakeholders across sectors.
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