India Unveils First AI Governance Framework for Responsible Innovation

India has taken a major step towards responsible artificial intelligence regulation with the release of its first AI Governance Guidelines. Issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the framework emphasises adaptive regulation within existing laws instead of introducing a separate AI-specific legislation.

Adaptive Approach Over New Legislation

The new framework advocates for an incremental and flexible approach, applying current statutes such as the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. It highlights the need to reinterpret these laws in the context of emerging AI challenges including bias, misinformation, and data misuse. MeitY clarified that India’s AI policy will rely on evolving regulatory mechanisms rather than a rigid new law.

Key Focus Areas in Legal Adaptation

One major proposal involves updating the definition of “intermediary” under the IT Act. The current definition covers online platforms that host or transmit third-party content but fails to include AI systems that autonomously generate or modify information. The guidelines recommend examining whether such AI entities should retain the “safe harbour” protection under Section 79 of the Act or be subject to new accountability provisions.

Bridging Policy and Technology Gaps

The AI governance framework identifies the need for harmonisation between data protection, consumer rights, and cybersecurity policies. It calls for greater transparency and explainability in AI models, along with risk-based compliance. The framework also encourages the creation of a national registry for high-risk AI systems to ensure traceability and ethical deployment.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The AI Governance Guidelines were released by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in November 2025.
• No new AI-specific law is proposed; existing statutes like the IT Act and DPDP Act will be amended.
• Section 79 of the IT Act provides “safe harbour” to intermediaries from liability for third-party content.
• The framework emphasises adaptive regulation, data ethics, and accountability in AI use.

India’s Strategy for Ethical and Secure AI Growth

The guidelines place India among countries opting for “light-touch” regulation while prioritising innovation and ethical safeguards. By leveraging current legal frameworks and integrating AI risk management, the policy seeks to balance technological advancement with public trust. This marks a foundational move in India’s broader digital governance ecosystem, paving the way for responsible AI deployment in public and private sectors alike.