Breaking: MIB addresses AI-based news recommendation and fake news regulation

In response to concerns about AI-driven news recommendation algorithms prioritizing sensational content over credible journalism, BJP MPs Alok Sharma (Bhopal) and Janardan Mishra (Rewa) sought clarification from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on Wednesday. They requested details on government initiatives to curb fake news and ensure accountability among media houses and online platforms.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the shift of media houses from traditional to digital platforms, emphasizing India's diverse and expansive media landscape. According to Vaishnaw, India hosts approximately 1,45,000 print publications, over 900 private satellite TV channels, and numerous digital media entities, including OTT platforms, digital newspapers, e-replica newspapers, and news websites.

Highlighting the sector's growth, Vaishnaw noted that the media and entertainment (M&E) industry expanded by over 8% in 2023, with 70% of this growth attributed to new media. He reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the industry’s advancement through various policy initiatives.

Responding to questions about AI governance and accountability, Vaishnaw explained that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is dedicated to ensuring fairness, safety, and accountability in AI applications while protecting human rights and privacy. The strategy includes regulatory frameworks, transparent governance, and independent oversight mechanisms to mitigate bias, discrimination, and misuse.

The government has also launched the IndiaAI Mission, a comprehensive program designed to leverage AI for innovation, social impact, and global leadership. The mission’s "Safe and Trusted AI" pillar underscores responsible AI development and deployment, promoting self-assessment tools, governance frameworks, and indigenous AI solutions to ensure ethical technology use.

To combat misinformation, the government has implemented various statutory and institutional mechanisms across different media platforms. The MIB cited regulatory frameworks such as the Press Council of India, the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 (IT Rules, 2021), which oversee content in print, television, and digital media.

Additionally, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) established a Fact Check Unit (FCU) in November 2019 to verify and counter misinformation related to the Central Government. The FCU authenticates news through official sources in ministries and departments and disseminates correct information via its social media platforms.

The government remains steadfast in its efforts to regulate AI-driven media, foster responsible journalism, and curb the spread of fake news, ensuring a balanced and credible information ecosystem in the digital era.