Reliance Applies for Trademark on ‘Operation Sindoor.’ Four applications were filed on May 7th, covering film and media-related services.
Reliance: A flurry of trademark applications followed closely after India's decisive action against terrorist targets under ‘Operation Sindoor.’ Reports indicate that four separate trademark applications were filed on May 7th, with Reliance Industries being the first to file.
Reliance Files First Application
Reliance Industries was the first to file for the ‘Operation Sindoor’ trademark. Three others subsequently applied – Mukesh Chetarm Agarwal of Mumbai, retired Group Captain Kamal Singh Oberoi of the Indian Air Force, and Alok Kothari, a Delhi-based lawyer. All applications stated the name was “proposed to be used,” clearly indicating plans for future commercial use.
Application Category
All four applications fall under Nice Classification Class 41, covering these services:
- Educational and training services
- Film and digital media production
- Live events and cultural programs
- Digital publication and broadcasting
This suggests ‘Operation Sindoor’ may be developed into a future film, web series, or documentary.
Reliance's Strong Media Presence
Reliance already has a significant presence in the media industry, holding stakes in Viacom18, Network18, Reliance Entertainment, and other media companies. This trademark application could be part of Reliance's media projects.
Trademark Approval Certainty?
In India, names of military operations do not automatically receive intellectual property rights protection. The Ministry of Defence typically does not trademark these names. Therefore, any entity can attempt registration. However, this doesn't guarantee the first applicant will receive the trademark.
According to the Indian Trademarks Act, 1999, the registrar can reject an application if a name is deceptive, falsely suggests government association, or is potentially offensive to public sentiment. Furthermore, in case of opposition, the trademark approval process can be lengthy and legally complex.
