India AI Regulation: Requires Government Approval for Model Launches
India has taken an important step in the global AI landscape by issuing an advisory that commands “significant” tech firms to seek government permission before launching new AI models. The move was announced by India’s Ministry of Electronics and IT. It aims to regulate the placement of artificial intelligence technologies within the country.
The directive is not legally binding. But it carries weight as it indicates the government’s stand on AI regulation. It also highlights the need for responsible AI development. Tech companies are now required to ensure that their AI services or products do not spread bias, discrimination, or threaten the integrity of democratic processes.
Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar emphasized that this advisory is a pioneer for future regulations. The ministry quotes its authority under the IT Act, 2000, and IT Rules, 2021. Firms must observe the ordinance “with immediate effect” and submit an “Action Taken-cum-Status Report” within 15 days.
This marks a reversal from India’s previous position. The ministry had ceased regulating AI growth earlier identifying its strategic importance. The sudden shift has caught many industry players off guard. They have concerns raised about its impact on India’s global competitiveness.
Startups and venture capitalists have uttered dismay. Pratik Desai is a founder of Kissan AI. He stated, “This is terrible and demotivating after working 4 years full-time bringing AI to this domain in India.” Silicon Valley leaders also critiqued the policy shift, calling it a “travesty.”
India’s move comes after Deputy Minister Chandrasekhar expressed disappointment with Google’s Gemini for its response to a user query about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The advisory aims to hold tech companies responsible for their AI models and their influence on society.
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