TLDR: The Indian government is actively developing a voluntary code of ethics and guidelines for Artificial Intelligence (AI) companies. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, aims to foster responsible AI use and robust risk management while balancing innovation with ethical considerations. These guidelines are expected to be a key discussion point at the Global AI Summit scheduled for February 2026 in New Delhi.
The Indian government is making significant strides in establishing a comprehensive, voluntary code of ethics and guidelines for Artificial Intelligence (AI) firms, a move designed to ensure responsible deployment and mitigate potential risks associated with the rapidly evolving technology. This proactive approach underscores India’s commitment to balancing technological innovation with crucial ethical considerations.
S Krishnan, Secretary for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), revealed that the government is crafting a voluntary code of conduct, which will include guidelines for the responsible use of AI, particularly within the public sector. A central tenet of this framework is risk management, drawing parallels with the risk-based assessment models adopted by the European Union’s AI Act. The government’s strategy supports a model where revenue generation aligns seamlessly with responsible AI practices, aiming to build trust and accountability across the industry.
This initiative is set to be a cornerstone of discussions at the upcoming Global AI Summit, slated for February 2026 in New Delhi. The summit will serve as a critical platform for international experts and policymakers to deliberate on AI’s impact across various sectors and to forge a cohesive strategy for global AI governance that benefits both local and international communities. India’s approach seeks to offer a ‘middle path’ in AI regulation, distinct from the U.S.’s resistance to strong rules and China’s state-controlled model, potentially building upon principles from the Seoul Pledge.
Preparations for these guidelines began early, with MeitY launching a nationwide consultation in June 2025 via the MyGov platform. This extensive outreach sought inputs from a diverse range of stakeholders, including students, startups, researchers, and civil society, focusing on how AI can promote inclusive growth, support development, and protect the environment. This transparent and democratic consultation process is seen as a unique advantage for India as a summit host.
Key aspects of the proposed guidelines are expected to emphasize transparency, potentially through Explainable AI (XAI) to clarify AI decision-making processes, establish clear liability frameworks for AI errors, and address issues of bias and fairness in AI systems. Furthermore, proposals include requirements for ‘red team’ results within 90 days, disclosure of compute usage beyond certain thresholds, and the establishment of an AI accident hotline. India also aims to champion balanced AI regulations, empower the Global South through initiatives like an ‘AI for Billions Fund’ to provide cloud credits and fellowships, and foster a ‘Global AI Safety Collaborative’ to share stress test tools and incident logs.
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By adopting best practices from global frameworks and tailoring them to its socio-economic realities, India aims to create a robust framework that addresses potential risks while vigorously promoting innovation. This proactive stance is crucial in ensuring AI’s positive and equitable impact on society as technology continues its rapid evolution.
