Volume 2 Issue 2 (February, 2026)

India Amends IT Rules to Regulate AI-Generated Content
India also amended the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in the form of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026 to deal with AI content and deepfakes. In this respect, the concept of “synthetically generated information” (SGI) has been introduced. Such information needs to be properly labeled. Intermediaries have to remove illegal content within 3 hours of official orders. In this respect, stricter timelines have been set for sensitive content. There are also stricter due diligence requirements. Failure to comply may lead to the loss of safe harbor protection provided by the Information Technology Act, 2000. The Rules are, in essence, India’s blueprint for regulating social media, online platforms, and digital content, ensuring a delicate balance between user safety, platform accountability, and government oversight.
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India and USA announce framework for an interim trade agreement
India and the United States have agreed to a framework for an interim trade agreement, as part of efforts to strengthen trade ties. The agreement will cover various areas, including tariff rationalisation, market access, and supply chain cooperation in key sectors. Additionally, there are plans to align their positions in areas like digital trade, technology, and regulatory issues. The agreement is seen as a step towards a comprehensive trade agreement. It is part of efforts to strengthen trade ties in the face of various uncertainties in the world.
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India and Gulf Cooperation Council sign terms of reference for a free trade agreement
India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have signed the Terms of Reference to initiate negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement. This is the beginning of long-pending talks to increase trade and investment flows between them. This is an important move in strengthening India’s ties with the Gulf nations as India’s ties with the Gulf nations need strengthening. The deal could create a major trade corridor between India and the Gulf region, strengthening energy, services, and supply chain ties.
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Cabinet approves Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0 to mobilize venture capital
The Union Cabinet has approved Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0, which is expected to improve access to capital for startups and strengthen the startup innovation ecosystem. The new scheme is based on the earlier Fund of Funds model, which aims at unlocking more venture capital investment through SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). The new scheme is expected to improve funding for early-stage and growth-stage startups in priority sectors. The new initiative is also expected to improve economic growth, as it is in line with the government's economic growth strategy. The new scheme is also expected to improve funding for startups, which is a major aspect of India's startup funding.
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AI Impact Summit 2026 concludes with adoption of New Delhi declaration
The AI Impact Summit 2026 concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, which represents a notable advancement in the global dialogue on the governance of artificial intelligence. The declaration focuses on the responsible, inclusive, and ethical use of artificial intelligence. It also focuses on international cooperation, risk management, and transparency. The key areas of focus are artificial intelligence safety, data management, and innovation. This represents a notable advancement in India's contribution to the global dialogue on artificial intelligence policy.
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Parliament passes the Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026
The Indian parliament has approved the Industrial Relations Code (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which reinforces the transition to the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. The amendment states that the repeal of the earlier laws, including the Trade Unions Act, 1926; the Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946; and the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, came into effect from 21 November 2025. The amendment seeks to clarify the legal position by stating that the repeal of the earlier laws is a direct outcome of the parliamentary legislation, as opposed to the notification by the executive. The amendment also includes saving provisions to ensure the validity of the existing trade unions, disputes, and proceedings. The move seeks to reduce the litigation risks and provide continuity to the industrial relations in the country. The amendment reinforces the legal position of the labour law consolidation framework in the country.
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