According to Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw, India might require a new legal framework to tackle the challenges presented by artificial intelligence, as the current information technology law was established long before AI technologies emerged rapidly.

Vaishnaw stated that the government is looking into the most effective ways to regulate the sector, along with ongoing discussions with industry stakeholders. He observed that the discussion on AI governance is intricate, especially as nations globally consider issues tied to AI safety.

Although certain actions have been implemented within the current IT framework, the minister suggested that these measures might not be adequate for the era of AI.

"Some actions have taken place within the IT Act framework, but I believe a new law is necessary as the realm of AI differs greatly from the world of the IT Act's establishment in 2000," Vaishnaw stated.

The minister stated that the government's strategy would be influenced by the necessity to foster technological advancement while ensuring public safety is not compromised.

"We are engaging with the industry as usual, our goal and method will be to harmonize innovation with regulation so that innovation continues, while ensuring the safety of our citizens," he mentioned.

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The statements arise as international policymakers persist in evaluating the dangers linked to generative AI, such as deepfakes, misinformation, and various types of online harm.

India has already enhanced its regulatory stance on AI-generated content. Earlier this year, the government implemented stricter compliance standards for online platforms handling synthetic and AI-generated content, such as deepfakes.

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According to the updated regulations, platforms like X and Instagram must eliminate such content within three hours if it is reported by a legitimate authority or a judicial body.

The government revised the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, to officially clarify AI-generated and synthetic content.

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The modifications encompass altered or AI-generated audio, visual, and audio-visual content meant to seem genuine, while excluding standard editing, accessibility improvements, and legitimate educational or design work.