Copyright Office and Copyright Board are two separate entities that play important roles in the administration and enforcement of copyright law in India.
Copyright Office
The Copyright Office is a government agency that operates under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is responsible for the registration and maintenance of copyright works.
Functions of the Copyright Office
- Registration of copyright works: The Copyright Office is responsible for the registration of various types of copyright works, including literary, musical, and artistic works.
- Issuance of copyright certificates: Upon registration, the Copyright Office issues a copyright certificate to the owner of the work, which serves as legal proof of ownership and facilitates enforcement of copyright infringement.
- Copyright information services: The Copyright Office provides information on copyright law, registration procedures, and other related matters to the public.
- Maintenance of copyright records: The Copyright Office maintains a register of copyright works and related information, which is accessible to the public.
Copyright Board
The Copyright Board is a quasi-judicial body established under the Copyright Act of India.
Functions of the Copyright Board
- Hearing of copyright disputes: The Copyright Board hears and resolves disputes relating to copyright infringement, licensing, and other matters.
- Grant of compulsory licenses: The Copyright Board may grant compulsory licenses to use copyrighted works in certain circumstances, such as when the owner of the work refuses to grant a license or when the work is not being used in India.
- Determination of royalties: The Copyright Board determines the royalty rates to be paid to copyright owners for the use of their works.
- Approval of tariff schemes: The Copyright Board approves tariff schemes submitted by copyright societies, which set the rates to be paid for the use of copyrighted works by users.