AI Policy and Regulations India: India’s artificial intelligence governance model is evolving in a systematic manner. Unlike other nations that have already enacted, or are working on enacting, stand-alone laws for this technology, India is choosing to integrate its governance through existing laws (i.e., the DPDP Act, 2023) – a process recognised under the current DPDP Act to be faster, easier and more cost-effective than creating stand-alone regulations.
From Advisory Guidelines to Practical Oversight
To date, the main guidelines provided by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) have been through advisory guidance and ethical frameworks. The MEITY has emphasised that the responsible development of AI requires developers to create AI that is fair, equitable and transparent, as well as to avoid causing harm.
DPDP Act as the Anchor for AI Governance
The DPDP Act does not refer to artificial intelligence but covers nearly all AI products that utilise personal information. Anything that would have needed to obtain consent before processing will still need consent, and so will all other aspects of processing personal data, including: (a) lawful use, (b) purpose limitation, and (c) security obligations will apply equally between both AI models and automated decision systems.
No Specific AI Law at this Time
There seems to be no indication from the government that they will be proposing a stand-alone law specific to artificial intelligence in the near future. The government’s plan is to continue to focus on avoiding potentially inhibiting the innovation of new technologies, particularly those being developed by startups and research-oriented businesses, through overregulating them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Will India introduce a separate artificial intelligence law soon?
No. The government currently plans to regulate artificial intelligence through existing laws like the DPDP Act.
Q2. How does the DPDP Act apply to artificial intelligence tools?
Artificial intelligence systems processing personal data must follow DPDP rules on consent, security, and lawful use.
Q3. What does this mean for startups and technology companies?
Startups must ensure data compliance and transparency but will not face new artificial intelligence laws immediately.
