AI is accelerating patent creation in India's technology hubs, according to executives from global firms and local innovation centers. Radhakrishnan Kodakkal, head of Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, highlighted the growing role of AI in speeding up the development of new products and intellectual property. At a recent Reuters summit, Kodakkal noted that the number of IPs, patents, and trade secrets generated by global companies in India is already on the rise, and AI is expected to further boost this trend.

India's tech hubs have evolved beyond their traditional roles as low-cost back offices to become key innovation centers for multinational corporations. AI tools are increasingly being used to handle complex tasks such as coding and design, enabling faster and more efficient product development. This shift is supported by data showing a significant increase in patent filings in India, with a 11.3% rise to over 90,000 in fiscal 2024, according to a Nasscom report.

The impact of AI on patent creation is evident in the growing contributions from multinational companies, which accounted for nearly half of all patent filings in India during fiscal 2024. However, challenges remain, including the backlog at the Indian Patent Office, which has long been hindered by manpower shortages and slow examination processes. Despite these obstacles, the integration of AI is helping to streamline and expedite the patent filing process for many firms.

In India, the use of AI in patent creation is reshaping the landscape for both local and global companies. Executives at firms like Kimberly-Clark have expressed concerns about the current inefficiencies in the Indian patent system, with some opting to file patents through the U.S. instead. However, as AI tools become more sophisticated, they are expected to mitigate these challenges, making India an even more attractive hub for innovation and intellectual property development.

The convergence of AI and India's growing tech ecosystem is likely to have far-reaching implications for the global patent landscape. As more companies leverage AI to enhance their innovation processes, the Indian Patent Office and other regulatory bodies will need to adapt to the increased pace of filings. This shift could also influence international standards for patent examination and grant, positioning India as a key player in the global IP arena.