A copyright is the right of ownership over any original literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work. This right is enjoyed by the author of such work, and by any other entity authorized by them. It also includes rights over performance, broadcasting and sound recording.

In India, copyrights are governed by the Indian Copyright Act, 1957, most recently amended in 2012. India is also a signatory to most international treaties like the Berne Convention (1886), the Universal Copyright Convention (1952) and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). As per the provisions of these treaties, a copyright granted in India is acknowledged in all signatory countries. The term of copyright in India covers the life of the author of the copyrighted work, plus sixty years.

Registration is not essential for a copyright to be acknowledged in India. However, registration gives prima facie evidence of ownership, should a dispute arise. On making an application for registration of a copyright, a period of 30 days is given to allow oppositions thereto, if any. If there is no opposition, or all oppositions are successfully resolved, a certificate of registration is given to the applicant. Infringement of a copyright attracts civil and criminal sanctions.