India to Implement Comprehensive Deepfake Regulations Using Innovative Techno-Legal Approach

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025

New Delhi:

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced at the NDTV World Summit in Delhi that India will "very soon" implement regulations to address deepfakes in the era of artificial intelligence. The approach will incorporate both technical and legal components rather than relying solely on legislation.

"Regulating the AI world cannot be accomplished simply by enacting a law. A technical solution is essential," Vaishnaw stated during the summit's second day.

The IT Minister acknowledged that AI enables entertaining applications - such as filters that make people appear older or younger - and these humorous aspects should be appreciated.

However, he emphasized that deepfakes have unprecedented potential to cause societal harm.

"A few months ago, there was an amusing video portraying political leaders as young children. That represents an interesting and harmless aspect of AI that should be encouraged," Vaishnaw remarked.

"What's crucial is protecting society from significant harms that deepfakes can cause when someone's voice or face is manipulated to deliver messages completely unrelated to them," he explained.

"Everyone has the right to ensure their likeness and voice aren't used in ways that harm society. This principle guides our approach to this issue, and we'll soon introduce deepfake regulations," the Minister added.

India's regulatory framework will address this challenge through dual mechanisms - technical solutions and legal provisions.

Vaishnaw highlighted ongoing complex research at the AI Safety Institute, mentioning that IIT Jodhpur has developed technology capable of detecting deepfakes with over 90 percent accuracy.

"A combined approach using technical solutions and regulations will be more effective than the European Union's primarily regulatory focus. India's orientation favors innovation, and as a government, we prioritize innovation. Simultaneously, we must safeguard society from potential harms, which is why we've adopted this techno-legal approach," Vaishnaw explained.

About NDTV World Summit 2025

The NDTV World Summit 2025 explores the theme 'Edge of the Unknown: Risk. Resolve. Renewal.' This two-day conference invites participants to transcend boundaries and borders - venturing into unfamiliar territory in pursuit of a more conscious, collective future.

This year's summit brings together an exceptional assembly of thought leaders - including heads of state, cultural icons, business innovators, technological pioneers, and ethical voices - to engage in transformative dialogue. The conversations are founded on courageous inquiry and thoughtful exploration of navigating complexity with clarity and conscience.