Is the Copyright Act Being Reviewed to Tackle Challenges from Generative AI?
Synopsis
The Indian government is reviewing the Copyright Act of 1957 to address challenges posed by generative AI. This includes an eight-member committee analyzing the implications of AI on copyright law, particularly regarding copyrighted content in AI training and authorship of AI-generated works. Stakeholder input is actively sought, aiming for a balance between innovation and copyright protection.
Key Takeaways
The government is reviewing the Copyright Act of 1957.
An eight-member committee has been formed for this purpose.
Focus areas include the use of copyrighted content in AI training.
Stakeholder feedback is actively sought to inform the review process.
Issues of authorship and copyrightability of AI-generated works are under examination.
New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) The government is currently evaluating the effectiveness of the Copyright Act, 1957, to tackle the new legal dilemmas presented by the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), as informed to Parliament.
An eight-member committee was established by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) on April 28 to investigate and assess the issues associated with generative AI and its impact on copyright legislation, as stated by the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, in a written response to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.
“Indeed, an eight-member committee has been formed by DPIIT on April 28, 2025, to scrutinize and evaluate the emerging challenges linked to generative AI and its repercussions on copyright laws,” Prasada noted.
He mentioned that the committee has completed Part 1 of its working document, which pertains to the utilization of copyrighted material in AI training, and it has been released for feedback from stakeholders.
“The committee has completed Part 1 of the Working Paper addressing the use of copyrighted content in AI training, and it has been shared for stakeholder feedback,” the minister added.
Furthermore, Prasada indicated that matters concerning the authorship and copyrightability of works generated by AI are presently under evaluation and will be included in Part 2 of the working document.
Emphasizing the committee's mandate, the minister stated that its terms of reference (ToR) include identifying and analyzing legal and policy issues stemming from the use of Artificial Intelligence within the realm of copyright, assessing the sufficiency of the existing provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957, and providing recommendations based on their analysis.
“Identifying and analyzing the legal and policy issues arising from the use of Artificial Intelligence concerning copyright” and “assessing the adequacy of the current provisions of the Copyright Act, 1957, in addressing these challenges” are pivotal tasks assigned to the committee, Prasada mentioned.
He also confirmed that the government is in discussions with major stakeholders as part of the review procedure.
“Yes,” the minister responded when asked if the law department has engaged or intends to engage with key stakeholders, including news organizations, publishers, and representatives from the technology sector, to ensure that legal reforms maintain a balance between innovation and effective copyright protection.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the implications of updating copyright laws in light of technological advancements. The government's initiative to engage stakeholders reflects a commitment to fostering innovation while ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights. This balance is crucial for the future of creativity and technology in our nation.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the committee established by DPIIT?
The committee aims to examine the legal and policy issues arising from the use of generative AI and assess the adequacy of the Copyright Act, 1957.
What are the main areas the committee will focus on?
The committee will focus on the use of copyrighted content in AI training and the authorship and copyrightability of AI-generated works.
How is the government involving stakeholders in this review?
The government is actively engaging with key stakeholders, including news organizations and technology sector representatives, to gather feedback and ensure balanced legal reforms.
When was the committee formed?
The committee was constituted on April 28, 2025.
What is the significance of this review?
This review is significant as it addresses the intersection of copyright law and emerging AI technologies, aiming to protect creativity while encouraging innovation.
