My innovation has been under patent review for three years, but I just learned someone else won a ₹12 lakh prize for a project that seems to be a direct copy of mine. I’ve had my project ready for years and it’s protected through the patent process. How is someone else benefiting from my idea? I’m feeling very disheartened and need some advice.

Under Indian law, your patent application provides provisional protection, meaning it prevents others from commercially exploiting your invention while it’s under review. If the other project is a direct copy, you may have grounds to file an infringement lawsuit against the winner and the prize-awarding body. It’s crucial to consult a patent attorney immediately to assess your legal options and protect your invention.