NewsStocksIndia Explores AI Content Labelling and Creator Compensation Framework, Says MeitY SecretaryIndia Explores AI Content Labelling and Creator Compensation Framework, Says MeitY Secretary
India is developing comprehensive AI governance policies including mandatory labelling of AI-generated content and creator compensation frameworks. MeitY Secretary S Krishnan outlined the government's approach of using existing IT Act provisions with minor modifications, while DPIIT has issued a working paper on copyright compensation currently open for comments. The framework balances innovation with creator rights and cultural sensitivities.
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India is actively examining policy measures to address AI governance challenges, including mandatory labelling of AI-generated content and establishing a remuneration framework for copyrighted material usage. MeitY Secretary S Krishnan outlined these initiatives during an interview with CNBC TV18, highlighting the government's comprehensive approach to balancing innovation with creator rights and public awareness.
AI Governance Framework and Content Labelling
The government has released AI governance guidelines developed by an expert group chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser. According to Krishnan, this framework prioritizes utilizing existing legal provisions wherever possible, including current laws under the IT Act and criminal law that address misrepresentation and fake news.
| Policy Area | Current Status | Proposed Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Framework | IT Act and criminal law provisions exist | Minor modifications required |
| Content Labelling | No mandatory requirements | Proposed mandatory AI content labelling |
| Implementation | Voluntary measures recommended | Government intervention if voluntary action fails |
Krishnan emphasized that citizens have a fundamental right to know whether content they consume is real or synthetic. He noted that technology companies should be capable of managing such labelling requirements, making the implementation technically feasible.
Cultural Context and Regulatory Approach
The MeitY Secretary highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity in AI governance, noting that content acceptable in one society may not be appropriate in another. This cultural context consideration forms a crucial component of India's regulatory framework development.
The expert group has initially recommended voluntary measures for compliance. However, Krishnan stated that the government remains prepared to implement mandatory regulations where voluntary action proves insufficient.
Copyright and Creator Compensation Framework
A significant aspect of the policy discussion involves creator compensation for copyrighted material usage. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has issued a working paper on this topic, which is currently open for public comments.
| Stakeholder Concerns | Details |
|---|---|
| Media Houses | Curated content used without remuneration |
| Compensation Need | Financial viability requires fair compensation |
| Creator Rights | Balance between opt-out ability and regulated framework |
| Innovation Impact | Careful balancing required with creators' rights |
Media organizations have specifically informed the government that their curated content is being utilized without appropriate remuneration, threatening their long-term viability. Krishnan acknowledged the need to "strike a balance" between various stakeholder interests.
Implementation Challenges and Future Outlook
Addressing concerns from content creators about potential limitations on their ability to opt out or negotiate better compensation rates, Krishnan indicated that these issues would need careful monitoring as the framework develops. He emphasized that transitioning from an unregulated environment where content is used without compensation to a structured regulatory framework requires careful consideration of all stakeholder interests.
The government's approach reflects a commitment to ensuring that innovation in AI technology proceeds alongside appropriate protections for content creators and public awareness. The ongoing consultation process through the DPIIT working paper demonstrates the administration's intention to gather comprehensive stakeholder input before finalizing policy measures.
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