Just hours after India announced a high-profile cross-border military operation named “Operation Sindoor,” Reliance Industries Limited became the first to file a trademark application for the phrase.

Within 24 hours, three more applicants followed suit, all seeking exclusive rights under Class 41 — a category covering entertainment, education, cultural, and media services.

The phrase “Operation Sindoor” — evocative of national pride and sacrifice, with "sindoor" symbolizing traditional Indian values — rapidly gained traction in public discourse. Its emotional and patriotic appeal has now made it a target for commercial use, especially in media and entertainment.

Between 10:42 AM and 6:27 PM on May 7, 2025, four trademark applications were submitted by:

• Reliance Industries Limited

• Mukesh Chetram Agrawal, a resident of Mumbai

• Group Captain Kamal Singh Oberh (Retd.), former Indian Air Force officer

• Alok Kothari, a Delhi-based lawyer

All four have applied under Class 41 of the Nice Classification, which includes:

• Education and training services

• Film and media production

• Live performances and events

• Digital content creation and distribution

• Cultural and sporting activities

Each application is marked as “proposed to be used,” signaling future commercial plans, potentially as a film title, documentary, or web series.

Can Military Operation Names Be Trademarked?

In India, names of military operations like “Operation Sindoor” are not automatically protected by law. The Ministry of Defence does not register or reserve such names as intellectual property. Consequently, unless the government steps in, such names can be trademarked by private individuals or entities.

However, under the Trade Marks Act, 1999, the Trademark Registry has the authority to reject registrations that:

• Are deceptive or misleading (Section 9(2))

• Could offend public sentiment or are contrary to public policy

• Imply a false connection with national defense (Section 11)

Despite this, there is no automatic prohibition on registering such terms unless a specific objection is raised by the government or a third party.

Trademark Disputes: What Happens When Multiple Applications Are Filed?

Indian trademark law does not guarantee rights to the first filer. While the filing date holds importance, other criteria also influence the outcome:

• Actual intent to use the trademark

• Possibility of confusion with existing marks

• The distinctiveness of the phrase

• Any evidence submitted during opposition proceedings

When identical or near-identical trademarks are filed around the same time, the registry may freeze examination or delay publication. Disputes are usually resolved through opposition proceedings, and in some cases, parties may enter into coexistence agreements.

How the Trademark Process Works in India

The standard trademark registration process includes:

1. Filing the application with relevant classification and fee

2. Examination by the Trade Marks Registry

3. Publication in the Trademarks Journal (4-month window for objections)

4. Handling of opposition (if any)

5. Final registration upon clearance

As “Operation Sindoor” moves into public and commercial consciousness, the coming weeks could witness trademark battles, objections, or even government intervention — all hinging on whether the phrase is deemed fit for private ownership in the entertainment domain.