India AI Governance Guidelines
The India AI Governance Guidelines establish a comprehensive framework designed to balance artificial intelligence innovation with accountability and safety, aligning with the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. The guidelines are organized into four parts: core principles or sutras, key issues and recommendations across six pillars, an actionable implementation plan, and practical guidance for industry actors and regulators. Through a techno-legal approach that leverages Digital Public Infrastructure, the framework seeks to foster inclusive development while mitigating risks such as algorithmic bias, deepfakes, and loss of control.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Policymakers, regulators, industry developers, and deployers seeking comprehensive guidance on responsible AI development and deployment in India.
What the document contains
The document addresses foundational AI infrastructure, capacity building initiatives, policy and regulatory alignment, risk mitigation frameworks, graded accountability structures, and institutional oversight mechanisms. It provides actionable recommendations for implementing safe and trusted AI across public and private sectors in India.
The guidelines do not propose a brand-new, standalone omnibus AI statute, relying instead on adapting existing legal frameworks and targeted amendments.
- India's AI governance approach balances pro-innovation principles with safeguards against societal and individual risks.
- The framework is guided by seven core sutras, placing trust, people-first design, and fairness at the foundation.
- Existing laws combined with targeted legal amendments and voluntary measures are preferred over a standalone comprehensive AI law at this stage.
- A whole-of-government institutional structure, including the AI Governance Group and the AI Safety Institute, will coordinate policy and technical validation.
- The integration of AI with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) provides a scalable pathway for inclusive socio-economic development.
· Preface · Foreword · Introduction · Executive Summary · Part 1: Key Principles · Part 2: Issues & Recommendations · Part 3: Action Plan · Part 4: Practical Guidelines for Industry & Regulators · Glossary · Annexures · References
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
4/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
Adopt a graded liability system based on the function performed, level of risk, and whether due diligence was observed.
Part 2
screening score · 2026-10-23
Fairness
4/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
Promote inclusive development and avoid discrimination.
Part 1
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Dignity
3/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
Human-centric design, human oversight, and human empowerment.
Part 1
screening score · 2026-10-23
Privacy
4/5Protection of personal data and private life
The Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) which governs the collection and processing of all digital personal data in India
Part 2
screening score · 2026-10-23
Transparency
4/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
Provide disclosures and explanations that can be understood by the intended user and regulators.
Part 1
screening score · 2026-10-23
Enforcement
4/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
Applicable laws should be enforced, while guidelines can assist organisations in meeting their obligations
Part 2
screening score · 2026-10-23