Indian Trademark Authority Warns Against Unauthorized Online Registration Services

On January 7, 2026, India’s Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks (CGPDTM) issued a public notice warning against several popular online platforms offering trademark registration services, including 'makeinindia.com', 'cleartax.in', and 'startupwala.com'. The authority clarified that these entities are neither registered trademark agents nor advocates under the Trade Marks Act, and therefore are not authorized to practice before the Registrar of Trade Marks.

While such platforms have increased awareness and accessibility of trademark protection for small businesses, the CGPDTM raised concerns over misleading assurances of guaranteed registrations. Many services reportedly fail to comply with mandatory legal requirements and do not provide strategic advice on trademark distinctiveness and protection, often leading to objections, rejections, or weak filings that leave brands vulnerable. Brand owners are therefore urged to stay alert, proceed with caution, and verify their representatives before using online trademark services.