AI, DPDP and IT Rules Set to Usher in New Phase of Big Tech…

Sarah J · 2026-01-05T11:57:45.000Z

India is entering a new phase of technology regulation in 2026, driven by converging frameworks related to artificial intelligence (AI), the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and the revamped Information Technology (IT) Rules. These regulatory instruments are expected to significantly alter how Big Tech companies operate, handle data, and ensure accountability, placing India among a growing cohort of countries seeking to balance innovation with public interest and digital governance. The DPDP Act, which came into force after India’s long-awaited overhaul of data protection laws, sets clear standards for data collection, storage, consent and cross-border flows, providing individuals with enhanced control over their personal information. It also introduces rigorous compliance requirements for technology platforms and cloud service providers that manage consumer data, setting the stage for higher accountability in an era of increased digital adoption. Simultaneously, draft AI-specific guidelines - developed through multi-stakeholder consultations aim to establish responsible AI governance principles that align with global norms and best practices. These include provisions for transparency, fairness, explainability and auditability in AI systems deployed by both domestic and international firms. The government plans to finalise and roll out these policy frameworks in 2026, reinforcing India’s intent to foster trustworthy AI that safeguards consumers while enabling innovation. Revised IT Rules are also expected to bring significant changes to platform governance, content moderation, grievance redressal and systemic risk management. These updated rules aimed at addressing the challenges posed by large digital platforms are likely to increase regulatory scrutiny of algorithmic recommendation systems, automated decision-making and data export practices. Together with DPDP and AI policy mandates, they signal a comprehensive regulatory agenda that seeks to protect users and promote market fairness without stifling growth. Industry leaders and legal experts believe this multi-layered regulatory regime will compel Big Tech companies to re-evaluate compliance infrastructure, risk management processes and ethical frameworks in India. While some firms have already scaled up investment in governance and risk teams, broader adoption of regulatory best practices will be critical for maintaining consumer trust and operational resilience in a rapidly digitising economy. The anticipated regulatory developments position India to become one of the most forward-looking jurisdictions globally, balancing technology adoption, data protection and ethical AI deployment. As global debates around tech regulation intensify, India’s approach could serve as a model for other emerging economies seeking to govern digital ecosystems responsibly while preserving innovation momentum. #StartupEuropeIndiaNetwork #India #Tech #MarketExpansion #Science #AI #Infrastructure #TechRegulation #DPDP #DataProtection #ITRules #ResponsibleAI #DigitalGovernance #BigTech #EthicalAI #PlatformAccountability #DigitalPolicy #Innovation #CyberSecurity

Member Login Get Access

AI, DPDP and IT Rules Set to Usher in New Phase of Big Tech… | SEINET