Procedure of Registration of Domain Name in India – An Analysis
🖥️ Procedure of Registration of Domain Name in India – An Analysis
🔹 1. What is a Domain Name?
A domain name is the human-readable address of a website, such as www.example.in. It serves as a unique identifier on the Internet.
Example: www.mygov.in → a domain name owned by the Government of India.
🔹 2. Authorities Involved
| Authority | Role |
|---|---|
| ICANN (International) | Oversees global domain name system (DNS). |
| INRegistry (India) | Operates and manages the .IN country-code top-level domain (ccTLD). |
| NIXI (National Internet Exchange of India) | Governs INRegistry and promotes Indian internet infrastructure. |
| Accredited Registrars | Companies authorized to sell domain names (e.g., GoDaddy, BigRock, Hostinger). |
🔹 3. Procedure for Domain Name Registration in India
Step-by-Step:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Choose a Domain Name | Choose a unique and meaningful name relevant to your business or identity. |
| Step 2: Check Availability | Use a domain registrar or INRegistry search tool to see if the domain is available. |
| Step 3: Select a Registrar | Choose an ICANN/INRegistry-accredited registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, BigRock). |
| Step 4: Register the Domain | Fill in details (name, address, email, payment info), select domain extension (.in, .com, .org, etc.), and complete payment. |
| Step 5: Confirmation and Activation | Once payment is made, the domain is activated and accessible online. |
✅ You can register a domain for 1–10 years and renew upon expiry.
🔹 4. Types of Domains Available in India
| Domain Type | Use |
|---|---|
| .in | General use in India |
| .co.in | Companies |
| .org.in | Non-profit organizations |
| .gov.in | Government bodies (restricted) |
| .ac.in | Academic institutions |
| .net.in, .firm.in, etc. | Industry-specific uses |
🔹 5. Legal Aspects of Domain Name Registration in India
🧾 Notable Points:
Domain names are protected as intellectual property and can be trademarked.
Trademark infringement can occur if someone registers a domain similar to a registered brand.
Disputes may be resolved under the IN Dispute Resolution Policy (INDRP) administered by NIXI.
Cybersquatting (registering domains of famous brands to sell at a higher price) is illegal and can lead to legal action.
🔹 6. Dispute Resolution – INDRP
Administered by: National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI)
Based on ICANN’s UDRP principles
Complainants must prove:
Domain name is identical or confusingly similar to a trademark.
Registrant has no legitimate interest in the name.
Domain was registered and is being used in bad faith.
🔹 7. Benefits of Registering a Domain Name
Builds online identity and credibility
Protects brand or business name
Enhances search engine visibility
Provides a professional email address (e.g., contact@yourname.in)
🔹 8. Challenges and Issues
| Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cybersquatting | Registering domains of known brands in bad faith |
| Domain hijacking | Unauthorized access and transfer of domain |
| Lack of awareness | Individuals/SMEs often ignore domain-related IP rights |
| Multiple jurisdictions | Disputes involving international domains may be complex |
📌 Conclusion
The domain name registration process in India is simple, fast, and digital. However, it’s important to ensure that:
The name doesn’t infringe on trademarks.
You use a reliable and accredited registrar.
You understand the legal and IP protections tied to your domain.
As businesses shift online, domain names have become as valuable as trademarks — making their registration a strategic digital asset.
Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
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