India is preparing to adopt international standards for artificial intelligence once they are formally established by global bodies, according to the Department of Consumer Affairs. The move signals India’s commitment to shaping responsible AI governance in coordination with multilateral efforts.
Speaking at a PHDCCI conference focused on AI’s role in combating fraud and counterfeits, Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare said that Indian experts are actively contributing to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and other standards-setting bodies. She confirmed that 39 global AI standards are already in place, with 45 more under development.
Building a foundation for ethical and safe AI use
The discussions at the IEC and other international forums are focused on defining what constitutes safe, fair, and ethical AI practices. Key areas include algorithmic transparency, inclusion, privacy protections, and governance frameworks to mitigate misinformation, manipulation, and exploitation.
Khare noted that AI’s capacity to influence human behaviour — particularly in digital commerce and information dissemination — makes regulatory alignment urgent. “AI has begun spreading propaganda and eroding trust in digital systems,” she warned, while also acknowledging the innovation it enables in areas like fraud detection and smart content.
India’s participation in international technical committees ensures that its regulatory frameworks will not only align with global standards but also reflect local context and enforcement capacity. The country’s role in shaping emerging norms puts it in a strong position to influence how AI is deployed across sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, and public services.
National readiness and dual focus on innovation and control
While global standards are still evolving, India is simultaneously building its domestic policy foundation. With AI integrated into everything from retail recommendation engines to social media algorithms, regulators are under pressure to move quickly without stifling innovation.
Khare emphasised that once the international frameworks are finalised, India will begin formal adoption — including legal measures to protect consumers and prevent algorithmic abuse. The emphasis will be on interoperability, data security, and clarity in how AI models are trained and deployed.
The government is also collaborating with academia and the private sector to ensure that standard-setting translates into enforceable guidelines — particularly in high-risk domains like financial services, identity systems, and consumer rights.
By staying embedded in global AI policymaking forums, India is positioning itself not just as a passive recipient of standards, but as a key contributor to shaping AI governance for the global South.
