The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has ordered private satellite television channels to limit AI to an assistive role, strengthen editorial checks and use Survey of India maps for all telecasts, graphics, and digital representations.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has cautioned private satellite television channels against careless use of artificial intelligence (AI) in news and programme broadcasts, reiterating that accuracy, authenticity and sensitivity must not be compromised.
In a recent advisory, the ministry asked broadcasters to comply with the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Network Rules, 1994. It also directed channels to use authentic maps of India published by the Survey of India.
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MIB says AI Must Support, Not Compromise, News Accuracy
The ministry reiterated that AI tools may be used only to assist, without undermining the accuracy or authenticity of news content.
Broadcasters have been asked to strengthen editorial and content review systems and ensure that staff involved in news gathering, editing, production, transmission and telecasts understand the Programme Code. The advisory also recommends regular workshops and training sessions.
The advisory follows observations by the Inter-Departmental Committee (IDC), constituted under the Cable Television Networks (Amendment) Rules, 2021, that some television broadcasts did not align with the spirit of the Programme Code.
The committee also noted that multiple channels had aired similar news and visuals on similar subjects. It warned against normalising inappropriate behaviour or language. Violations of the Programme Code may invite action under the 1995 Act and its rules.
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Survey of India Maps Mandated Across TV & Digital Graphics
To protect national integrity under Rule 6(1)(h), the MIB has asked private satellite channels to use only authentic Survey of India maps for broadcasts. The ministry further noted that compliance requirements apply to coverage and live broadcasts involving anti-terrorist operations, violence, natural calamities and disasters.
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Channels Told to Screen Debates and Protect Victims’ Identities
The advisory has also requested stricter editorial control over live debates and panel discussions to prevent content that promotes communal or anti-national attitudes.
Broadcasters should carefully select and sensitise panellists before programmes. Where necessary, they should mute audio, issue disclaimers, interrupt programmes, or discontinue feeds to prevent derogatory, abusive, or inflammatory content from airing.
The MIB also reminded channels to follow Supreme Court directions and applicable laws protecting victims of sexual offences. Broadcasters must not disclose direct or indirect identifying details, including photographs, family information, locality or other particulars that could reveal a victim’s identity.
For television newsrooms, the advisory puts editorial verification, responsible AI use and accurate geographical representation firmly on the compliance agenda.
Samarjit Kaur is a journalist and communications professional covering technology & emerging digital trends. With a focus on clarity and context, she reports on developments shaping industries and governance. When not reporting, she chooses to plug-in and relax on her playlists and plan her next bucket-list trips!
