TCS and CII have unveiled the 2025 Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property Report, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in AI-driven innovation. The report positions intellectual property as a decisive factor in converting AI research into economic value.
Released at the CII Global Summit on Technology, R&D and IP in New Delhi, the study presents a confident view of India’s innovation trajectory and the policy choices needed to support it.
India records a sharp rise in AI patents
India has witnessed an unprecedented jump in AI-related patent filings. Between 2019 and 2025, innovators filed more than 83,000 AI patents, compared to fewer than 4,000 filings from 2010 to 2018.
The report links this growth to rapid adoption of generative AI, large language models and advanced automation systems across sectors such as IT services, manufacturing, healthcare and finance.
Intellectual property emerges as a growth lever
According to TCS and CII, strong IP frameworks now play a central role in sustaining innovation momentum. Clear ownership rules, faster patent processing and better enforcement can help Indian companies compete globally.
The report argues that AI-led IP creation will support India’s long-term economic ambitions, including its goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy.
MSMEs face urgent IP challenges
The report acknowledges that MSMEs and startups face structural barriers in protecting AI innovations. Complex technologies, evolving legal standards and limited IP awareness often slow their progress.
TCS and CII call for targeted capacity-building programmes, simplified compliance systems and industry-led mentorship to close this gap.
Governance and trust take centre stage
The report also highlights risks related to bias, misinformation, deepfakes and transparency in AI systems. It stresses that innovation must advance alongside accountability.
Stronger governance frameworks, ethical AI adoption and regulatory clarity can help maintain public trust while enabling rapid technological progress.
Industry-government collaboration gains priority
TCS and CII emphasise closer collaboration between industry and policymakers to future-proof India’s AI ecosystem. Coordinated action can align innovation, regulation and global competitiveness.
The report positions India as a strong contender in the global AI race, provided it continues to modernise its IP and governance frameworks.
