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Techno-Legal Framework: India has taken a significant step toward shaping the future of artificial intelligence by releasing a comprehensive white paper focused on AI governance. The document has been issued by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser and introduces a techno-legal framework designed to balance rapid innovation with emerging risks. The initiative highlights India’s intent to create a trusted, transparent, and accountable AI ecosystem that can support economic growth while safeguarding public interest.

Policy Vision Behind the Framework

The white paper titled “Strengthening AI Governance Through Techno-Legal Framework” underlines that the success of any AI policy depends not only on its design but also on its effective implementation. It proposes a governance structure that combines legal safeguards, technical controls, and institutional coordination. This integrated approach aims to ensure that artificial intelligence systems are developed and deployed responsibly across sectors.

Inclusive AI Governance Ecosystem

A core objective of the framework is to strengthen India’s broader AI governance ecosystem. This ecosystem includes industry players, academic institutions, government bodies, AI model developers, solution deployers, and end users. By bringing all stakeholders under a common governance vision, the framework seeks to reduce fragmentation and promote shared accountability in AI development and use.

Formation of the AI Governance Group

At the centre of the proposed structure is the AI Governance Group, which will be chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser. The group is expected to act as a national coordination body connecting various government ministries, regulators, and policy advisory institutions. Its role will be to address existing gaps in governance processes and establish uniform standards for responsible AI regulation and guidelines.

Role of the Technology and Policy Expert Committee

To support the AI Governance Group, a Technology and Policy Expert Committee will be set up within the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. This committee will bring together multidisciplinary expertise from law, public policy, machine learning, AI safety, and cybersecurity. Its advisory role will focus on national priorities, global policy developments, and emerging AI capabilities that may require regulatory attention.

Establishment of the AI Safety Institute

Another major pillar of the framework is the creation of the AI Safety Institute. This institute will function as the primary national centre for evaluating, testing, and ensuring the safety of AI systems deployed across different sectors. It will support the IndiaAI mission by developing tools to address challenges such as content authentication, algorithmic bias, and cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

Risk Assessment and Global Collaboration

The AI Safety Institute will generate risk assessment reports and compliance reviews to inform policy decisions. It is also expected to collaborate with international AI safety institutes and standards-setting bodies, enabling cross-border knowledge sharing. This global engagement will help India align its AI safety practices with international benchmarks while adapting them to domestic needs.

National AI Incident Database

To monitor risks after deployment, the framework proposes the creation of a national AI Incident Database. This database will record, classify, and analyse AI-related safety failures, biased outcomes, and security breaches reported across the country. While inspired by global models such as the OECD AI Incident Monitor, the system will be customised to reflect India’s sector-specific realities and governance structures.

Industry Participation and Incentives

The white paper also emphasises voluntary industry commitments and self-regulation as essential components of effective AI governance. Practices such as transparency reporting and red-teaming exercises are encouraged to strengthen trust in AI systems. The government plans to provide financial, technical, and regulatory incentives to organisations that demonstrate leadership in responsible AI practices, reinforcing a culture of continuous learning and innovation.