(1) After the expiry of one year from the date appointed under sub-section (2) of section 24, no person other than a registered architect, or a firm of architects shall use the title and style of architect:
Provided that the provisions of this section shall not apply to--
(a) practice of the profession of an architect by a person designated as a "landscape architect" or "naval architect";
(b) a person who, carrying on the profession of an architect in any country outside India, undertakes the function as a consultant or designer in India for a specific project with the prior permission of the Central Government.
Explanation.-- For the purposes of clause (a),--
(i) "landscape architect" means a person who deals with the design of open spaces relating to plants, trees and landscape;
(ii) "naval architect" means an architect who deals with design and construction of ships.
(2) If any person contravenes the provisions of sub-section (1), he shall be punishable on first conviction with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees and on any subsequent conviction with imprisonment which may extend to six months or with fine not exceeding one thousand rupees or with both.