A trademark is a sign that distinguishes the goods or services of one business from those of another. It can be a word, phrase, logo, symbol, design, or even a combination of these elements. Trademarks help consumers identify the source of goods and services and make informed choices.

Registering your trademark grants you several important benefits:

• Exclusive rights: You have the legal right to prevent others from using your trademark on similar goods or services.

• National recognition: Your trademark is protected across the country, not just in the region where you use it.

• Stronger legal standing: A registered trademark makes it easier to take legal action against infringement.

• Credibility and trust: Consumers are more likely to trust businesses that have registered trademarks.

• Asset value: A registered trademark can be a valuable asset that can be sold or licensed.

Not everything can be trademarked. Some things that cannot be trademarked include:

• Generic terms (e.g., "apple" for fruit)

• Descriptive terms (e.g., "soft drink")

• Surnames

• Symbols or phrases that are already in use by others

• Government emblems or flags

• A registered trademark lasts for 10 years in India and most other countries. It can be renewed indefinitely by paying renewal fees.