I&B Ministry tells TV channels to curb anti‑national content and AI misuse

What the advisory says

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) sent a formal advisory to all satellite news channels. It reiterates that programmes must strictly follow the Programme Code prescribed under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and the 1994 Rules. The advisory, issued by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, lists a series of dos and don’ts aimed at preserving communal harmony and national integrity.

Key directives include:

• No live telecast of anti‑terror operations. Coverage may be limited to briefings by an authorised officer until the operation concludes.
• Violent or graphic visuals must be handled with caution – time‑stamped, blurred or masked where necessary, and avoided if they could cause undue panic.
• Maps shown on‑screen must be the authentic Survey of India versions.
• Debate shows and panel discussions should not promote or encourage communal or anti‑national attitudes.
• Artificial intelligence tools may be used only in an assistive capacity, without compromising accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity.
• Victims of sexual offences must not be identified through photographs, location details or family information.

The ministry warns that any breach could attract action under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act.

Why the move matters

The Inter‑Departmental Committee (IDC), which monitors television compliance, noted several instances where private channels aired content that fell short of the Programme Code. By tightening the rules around live‑cover, graphic footage and AI‑generated graphics, the government aims to curb sensationalism that can inflame communal tensions or spread misinformation.

“Inappropriate behaviour or language should not be normalised in telecasts,” the advisory reads, echoing the IDC’s earlier observations. The emphasis on authentic maps and victim protection reflects a broader push to align broadcasting practices with legal standards and societal sensibilities.

What broadcasters must do next

The ministry has asked channels to strengthen editorial and content‑review mechanisms and to conduct regular training for staff involved in news gathering, editing and transmission. It also urges the use of disclaimers, muting or interruption when any derogatory or inflammatory material slips through.

For newsrooms, the practical steps are clear:

1. Review upcoming programmes for language that could be perceived as anti‑national.2. Verify all visual material – especially disaster or crime footage – before airing.3. Ensure any AI‑driven graphics are clearly labelled and reviewed for factual integrity.4. Replace any non‑Survey of India maps with the official versions.5. Keep a log of remedial actions taken, should a breach be reported.

By adhering to these guidelines, broadcasters can help maintain a stable information environment while still delivering timely news.

Looking ahead

The advisory does not set a timeline for compliance checks, but the ministry’s reminder that violations may invite legal action signals an ongoing monitoring effort. As AI tools become more pervasive in newsrooms, the government’s cautionary stance may shape future regulations governing digital content creation.

Overall, the move underscores the administration’s commitment to national cohesion, responsible journalism and the safe use of emerging technologies in the public sphere.