Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, called for robust safety standards for children as artificial intelligence is deployed at scale, warning that without proper guardrails the same technology that educates and empowers children could expose them to misinformation, deepfakes, and exploitation.

Context

In his post, PM Modi wrote: 'I firmly believe that ensuring safety for children while rolling out AI is of utmost importance. Without proper standards, the same AI which can educate children and enhance their creativity can also expose them to misinformation, deepfakes and exploitation.' The post, which appeared to be the opening of a longer statement, signalled that the Prime Minister was about to outline a proposed solution, though the full text was not available.

The remarks come as India accelerates its AI ambitions while simultaneously grappling with the social risks of unregulated deployment, particularly for younger users who are among the most active consumers of AI-powered edtech and social platforms.

Policy Backdrop

India first articulated a national vision for responsible AI through its '#AIFORALL' strategy in 2018, which laid out ethical principles and emphasised the societal impact of AI systems. Building on that foundation, the government approved the IndiaAI Mission in 2024, a flagship programme aimed at building domestic AI infrastructure, datasets, and skilling with an explicit focus on responsible innovation.

Child online protection has also been a recurring theme in India's Digital Personal Data Protection Act, which places heightened obligations on platforms processing data of minors. Analysts have flagged that AI-specific amendments addressing deepfake generation and algorithmic targeting of children remain a potential next step in the regulatory pipeline.

Stakeholders and Impact

The groups most directly affected by any forthcoming standards include edtech platforms, which have scaled rapidly using AI-driven personalised learning, and the broader ecosystem of social media and content platforms frequented by children. Compliance requirements could reshape how these platforms design recommendation algorithms, content moderation tools, and data-collection practices for underage users.

At the global level, India's position mirrors discussions within the G20 and the Global Partnership on AI, both of which have identified child safety and deepfake risks as priority areas for coordinated governance. A strong domestic standard from the world's most populous nation could carry significant normative weight in multilateral forums.

What's Next

The Prime Minister's statement is widely expected to be followed by a concrete policy announcement, potentially in the form of AI-specific child safety guidelines or amendments to existing data protection legislation. Observers will watch for any formal consultation process involving edtech companies, civil society groups, and child rights bodies.

As India positions itself as a global voice on responsible AI governance, the standards it adopts for protecting children in digital spaces could set a precedent that resonates well beyond its borders.