New Delhi, October 21, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has advised private satellite television channels to strictly comply with the Programme Code and exercise caution while using artificial intelligence (AI) in news and programme production, warning that violations could invite regulatory action.
In an advisory issued on Wednesday, the ministry said several channels had breached provisions of the Programme Code under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994.
It said AI tools, including generative AI, could be used in an assistive capacity but must not compromise the accuracy, authenticity or sensitivity of news content. The caution applies to applications such as graphics, virtual news presentations and other programming.
The ministry stressed that broadcasters remained responsible for maintaining editorial standards and ensuring that technology did not distort factual reporting.
According to the advisory, an inter-departmental committee had observed that telecasts on various channels were not in keeping with the spirit of the Programme Code. It also flagged instances in which multiple channels aired similar news reports and visuals on comparable subjects, raising concerns about compliance with broadcasting norms.
The committee recommended strict adherence to statutory provisions and said inappropriate behaviour, objectionable language and undesirable conduct should not be normalised through television broadcasts.
The ministry also urged channels to carefully select and sensitise panellists appearing on debates and discussion programmes to prevent the dissemination of communal, inflammatory or anti-national content.
Broadcasters were asked to deploy safeguards, including muting, warnings, disclaimers or discontinuing feeds where necessary, to prevent derogatory, abusive or provocative remarks from being aired.
The advisory reiterates that television channels must uphold the Programme Code while adopting emerging technologies in broadcasting.
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