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AI Content Labelling: IT Rules 2021 Amended in 2026

11 February 20261 min read
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYAI ContentLabelling: IT Rules2021 Amended in202611 February 2026safalsetu.com

Why in the news

The Centre amended the 2021 IT intermediary rules so that realistic AI-made content must carry a clear label. The changes apply from 20 February 2026.

Key facts

  • Platforms must label photorealistic synthetic media that looks like real people or events.
  • Routine smartphone touch-ups and automatic enhancements are exempt.
  • The final definition is narrower than the October 2025 draft.
Content typeRemoval deadline
Declared illegal by a court or appropriate government3 hours
Non-consensual nudity, deepfakes2 hours
Earlier norm24–36 hours

Safe harbour

  • Shields intermediaries from liability for user posts if due diligence is followed; breach of the rules can end it.

Exam angle

  • Effective date: 20 February 2026.
  • Terms: synthetic media, intermediary, safe harbour.

Test yourself

1. From which date did the amended IT Rules on labelling AI-generated content come into force?

The provisions took effect on 20 February 2026.

2. Under the amended rules, within what time must deepfakes and non-consensual nudity be removed?

Sensitive content such as deepfakes must go within 2 hours.

3. What protection can intermediaries lose if they do not follow the amended IT Rules?

Non-compliance can lead to loss of safe harbour protection.

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 11 February 2026 (15 topics).

All topics of the dayDay quizFebruary 2026

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