🧠 Overview of Copyright Law in India
Copyright is a vital component of intellectual property rights, safeguarding original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic creations. In India, the administration of copyright falls under the purview of the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks (CGPDTM), operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
The foundational legislation governing copyright is the Copyright Act, 1957, which came into effect on June 4, 1957. This comprehensive statute comprises 25 chapters and 79 sections, covering the full spectrum of copyright registration, enforcement, and exceptions.
The Act’s stated purpose is:
“To amend and consolidate the law relating to copyright.”
📜 Evolution Through Amendments
Since its inception, the Copyright Act has undergone several key amendments to align with technological advancements, international treaties, and evolving stakeholder needs. The Act has been revised in the years:
🔍 Highlights of the 2012 Amendment
The Copyright (Amendment) Act, 2012 introduced transformative changes, particularly to address digital content and international compliance:
Copyright Act, Chapter, Index, Section, List.