India Proposes AI Rules for Telecom Networks and Services

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India published draft guidelines for consultation on responsible AI use in telecommunication networks and services. Stakeholders can submit written comments through November 27, 2026.

The rules would apply to authorized telecom service and network operators that use or plan to use AI. Each operator would need an internal AI policy approved by its board or equivalent governing body, file that policy with the regulator within seven working days, and establish an AI Governance and Safety Committee led by a senior executive.

Operators would classify AI systems as high, medium or low risk, require approval before use, maintain a current inventory, and provide human oversight. They would also need assessments covering accuracy, robustness, explainability, fairness and resistance to model drift before deploying new systems.

The proposal requires operators to record AI incidents in a central database and report critical and high severity incidents to the regulator. Operators would remain accountable for outcomes from AI systems developed internally or obtained from third parties.