Design Protection Achievement
New Digital Combat Coat Secures IPR Marking Defence Design Breakthrough: The Indian Army has secured exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for its New Coat Combat (Digital Print), marking a remarkable step in India’s defence design evolution. The registration covers both the unique digital camouflage and the structure of the coat.
This legal recognition ensures the Army can prevent any unauthorised manufacturing, duplication or commercial exploitation of its proprietary design.
Static GK fact: The Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks is headquartered in Kolkata and manages design registrations in India.
Filing and Legal Framework
The combat coat was registered under Design Application No. 449667-001.
It is protected under the Designs Act, 2000, the Designs Rules, 2001, and supported by relevant clauses of the Patents Act, 1970.
Legal protection enhances accountability and enforces consequences like injunctions and damages in case of infringement.
Advanced Three-Layer Design
The new coat is part of a modern three-tier combat uniform designed for India’s diverse and demanding terrains.
The outer layer features a digitally printed camouflage for superior concealment and rugged operational durability.
The insulated mid-layer is lightweight and breathable, supporting warmth without restricting movement.
The thermal base layer improves moisture control and regulates body temperature in extreme climates.
Static GK fact: Indian Army personnel operate across varied terrains — from hot deserts of Rajasthan to the cold heights of Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
NIFT and Army Design Bureau Collaboration
The garment is designed by National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, which contributed technical textile research and ergonomic innovation.
The project was guided by the Army Design Bureau (ADB), which integrates military needs with industry and academic expertise.
This partnership reflects a modern approach to defence capability development where science, design, and strategy converge.
Transforming Military Wear
This initiative aligns with India’s mission of self-reliance in defence, reducing dependence on imported gear.
It uplifts troop comfort and operational efficiency — vital for success in high-pressure field environments.
It also demonstrates a growing understanding that uniforms are not just clothing but high-value defence assets requiring innovation and protection.
Static GK Tip: Atmanirbhar Bharat focuses on domestic innovation and production across strategic sectors, including defence.
Driving the Decade of Transformation
The IPR achievement complements the Indian Army’s Decade of Transformation 2023–2032, which emphasises modernisation in technology, gear, and battlefield systems.
Owning IP rights in defence design boosts national confidence, strengthens security, and safeguards India’s competitive edge.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
New Digital Combat Coat Secures IPR Marking Defence Design Breakthrough:
| Topic | Detail |
| Design Application No. | 449667-001 |
| Design Filed On | 27 February 2025 |
| Publication Date | 07 October 2025 |
| Developed By | National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi |
| Oversight | Army Design Bureau |
| Legal Safeguards | Designs Act 2000; Designs Rules 2001; Patents Act 1970 |
| Key Focus | Self-reliance in defence textiles |
| National Policy Alignment | Atmanirbhar Bharat and Decade of Transformation 2023–2032 |
