Section 3(a)
Frivolous Inventions
Inventions contrary to established scientific principles or natural laws.
Example:
- Perpetual motion machines
Section 3(b)
Public Order, Morality & Environment
Inventions whose commercial exploitation may harm public order, morality, human life, animal life, plant life, or the environment.
Examples:
- Human cloning methods
- Harmful biological technologies
Section 3(c)
Scientific Discoveries & Natural Phenomena
Mere discoveries of scientific principles, abstract theories, living things, or substances occurring in nature.
Examples:
- Discovery of a naturally occurring plant species
- Scientific theories
Section 3(d)
New Forms of Known Substances
New forms of known substances that do not demonstrate enhanced efficacy.
Examples:
- Minor pharmaceutical modifications lacking therapeutic improvement
- New crystal forms without enhanced effectiveness
Purpose:
Prevents "evergreening" of patents.
Section 3(e)
Mere Admixtures
Simple mixtures that only aggregate known properties of their components.
Examples:
- Ordinary combinations without synergistic effects
Section 3(f)
Mere Arrangements or Rearrangements
Simple combinations of existing devices functioning independently.
Examples:
- Combining a flashlight with a pen without creating a new technical function
Section 3(h)
Agricultural & Horticultural Methods
Methods relating to farming, cultivation, or horticulture.
Examples:
- Crop cultivation techniques
- Irrigation methods
Section 3(i)
Medical Treatment Methods
Methods for treatment, diagnosis, surgery, or therapy of humans and animals.
Examples:
- Surgical procedures
- Diagnostic methods
- Therapeutic treatment protocols
Section 3(j)
Plants & Animals
Plants and animals in whole or part, including seeds, varieties, and species.
Exception:
- Microorganisms may qualify for patent protection.
Section 3(k)
Computer Programs Per Se & Algorithms
Mathematical methods, business methods, computer programs per se, and algorithms.
Examples:
- Standalone software code
- Business methods
- Mathematical formulae
Possible Exception:
- Software integrated with novel hardware providing technical advancement.
Section 3(l)
Artistic & Literary Works
Creative expressions protected under copyright law.
Examples:
Section 3(m)
Mental Acts & Game Methods
Methods involving mental processes or rules for games.
Examples:
- Puzzle-solving techniques
- Chess strategies
- Game rules
Section 3(n)
Presentation of Information
Mere methods of displaying or presenting information.
Examples:
- New chart formats
- Information display layouts
Section 3(o)
Integrated Circuit Topography
Layout designs of semiconductor integrated circuits.
Protected separately under specialized legislation.
Section 3(p)
Traditional Knowledge
Traditional knowledge and known properties of traditional components.
Examples:
- Turmeric-based healing methods
- Traditional herbal remedies
- Ayurvedic formulations already known to the public
