New Delhi, Dec 12 (KNN) The commerce and industry ministry has come out with a draft to amend the existing patent rules aiming to streamline examination of applications.

The revised rules will fast track examination of patent applications particularly for startups.

According to the draft rules, there will be removal of transmittal fee for international application (for e-patent cooperation treaty filing) for startups and small entities.

The draft rules will amend the Patents Rules, 2003, the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP), under the ministry, said in a notification Monday.

It has also sought suggestions from the stakeholders on the draft rules.

The amendment aims to expedite examination of applications, opposition proceedings to grant of patent, and fees for international application.

"The draft rules to further amend the Patents Rules, 2003 which the central government proposes to make...and notice is hereby given that the said draft rules will be taken into consideration after the expiry of a period of thirty days...," according to the notification.

In FORM 28 of the Patents Act, 1970, the draft rule says that for claiming the status of a small entity, an Indian applicant needs to submit an evidence of registration under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Act, 2006 (27 of 2006) and a foreign entity needs to submit any document as evidence of eligibility. (KNN Bureau)