Training AI models in India might become easier soon
09 Dec 2025

An Indian government committee has recommended that artificial intelligence (AI) developers be given a mandatory blanket license, to use all legally accessed copyright-protected works for training their systems.

The proposal, however, comes with a caveat: it should also ensure statutory remuneration rights for copyright holders.

The recommendations were made in a working paper released by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), inviting stakeholder feedback.

DPIIT committee formed to address AI and copyright issues
Committee formation

Recognizing the need for discussions on emerging AI and copyright issues, the DPIIT formed a committee on April 28, 2025.

The eight-member panel is headed by Additional Secretary Himani Pande and includes legal experts as well as representatives from industry and academia.

Its mandate is to identify problems posed by AI systems, review the existing regulatory framework's adequacy, recommend changes if needed, and prepare a working paper for stakeholder consultation.

Proposed model aims to simplify licensing procedures
Licensing simplification

The proposed model seeks to simplify licensing procedures and reduce transaction costs while ensuring fair compensation for rightsholders.

It suggests a single umbrella organization, created by the rights holders and designated by the government, would administer royalties.

This measure would offer a single window for AI developers to access copyrighted works for training their systems.

Balancing copyright protection and technological advancement
Regulatory balance

The paper acknowledges the potential of generative AI to transform the world, but also highlights concerns over copyright law.

It emphasizes that the main challenge is protecting copyright in human-created works without hindering technological advancement.

To tackle this, a balanced regulatory architecture is needed to maintain the integrity of India's creative ecosystem while promoting AI innovation.