Summary:
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released draft guidelines for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in telecommunications networks and services, inviting stakeholder comments by November 27, 2026. The proposed framework aims to align the telecom sector with the India AI Governance Guidelines introduced in February 2026, emphasising trust, fairness, accountability, safety and innovation. As AI adoption increases across telecommunications, the guidelines seek to promote responsible implementation while improving transparency, predictability and accountability across the sector.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has published a draft titled ‘Guidelines on Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Telecommunication Networks and Provision of Telecommunication Services’ and invited stakeholders to submit their feedback.
In February 2026, the Government of India introduced the ‘India AI Governance Guidelines’ to leverage AI’s transformative capabilities for inclusive growth and global competitiveness while addressing potential risks to individuals and society. The framework is based on seven guiding sutras, or principles: trust as the foundation, people first, innovation over restraint, fairness and equity, accountability, understandable by design, and safety, resilience and sustainability. Part four of the guidelines offers practical recommendations for industry participants and regulators to improve clarity, predictability and accountability across the ecosystem.
India’s telecommunications sector forms a vital component of the country’s digital infrastructure. It currently enables public connectivity, the delivery of essential public e-services, commercial and business transactions, and the secure and resilient operation of critical information infrastructure. Beyond supporting social, economic and commercial activities, telecommunications also plays an essential role in national security and emergency response.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being incorporated into telecommunications networks and service delivery. To promote the consistent and responsible adoption of the India AI Governance Guidelines across the telecommunications sector and strengthen clarity, predictability and accountability within the ecosystem, TRAI has decided to develop dedicated guidelines for the responsible use of AI in telecommunications networks and services following consultations with stakeholders.
Accordingly, TRAI has made the draft guidelines on the responsible use of AI in telecommunications networks and service provision available on its website to gather stakeholder feedback. Interested parties have been invited to submit their written comments on the proposed guidelines by November 27, 2026.
