Exploring Biotechnological Patent Disposal Trends in India: Sectoral Comparisons and Implications

Abstract

This study investigates comparative patent application disposal trends in India across four major sectors: biotechnology, chemical, electrical/electronics, and mechanical sectors. A dataset of 229,834 applications from the IP India database spanning 5 years (2017–2021) gathered, and we employ statistical methods such as descriptive statistics, cross-tabulations, and tests including Kruskal–Wallis and chi-square to compare disposal outcomes, that is, abandoned, granted, and refused among these sectors. Results reveal that biotechnology exhibits the lowest disposal rates alongside the highest rates of refusal and abandonment, contrasting with the chemical sector, which leads in disposals and grants. Significant disparities in disposal times and types across sectors underscore the intricate nature of the patent process, necessitating sector-specific strategies. These findings advocate for policy adjustments, particularly in biotechnology, to better navigate India’s patent management dynamics and inform future technological innovation policies.