In a recent address at the Third Annual Storyboard18 Digital News Publishers Association (DNPA) Conclave 2026 held in New Delhi, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the necessity of mandatory user consent for all types of synthetically generated content. He insisted that digital platforms should take decisive actions to combat cyber fraud. Vaishnaw remarked that the responsibility of content should not remain solely with the platform, asserting that their roles have evolved from merely hosting content to actively participating in its distribution and integrity. He stated, “The times have gone when a platform could claim they are not responsible for the content published on their sites,” calling for heightened accountability from these platforms.

Call for Equitable Revenue Sharing

Vaishnaw also voiced the need for social media platforms to ensure equitable revenue distribution among content creators, including those in remote areas, educators, and influencers. He stressed that a fair revenue-sharing model is essential for sustaining the creativity and livelihood of individuals who contribute content. “There has to be a fair share of revenue with people creating content,” he stated, underscoring the importance of recognizing the diverse contributions of content creators.

Trust as a Cornerstone of Society

Emphasizing the role of trust in democratic societies, Vaishnaw remarked that human society is fundamentally built on trust and institutions. He articulated that the development of social structures—ranging from families to media—is built upon a shared understanding of trust. According to him, “Mutual trust defines the entire core of the institution,” a principle he believes is currently under threat. He expressed concern regarding the decline of trust stemming from various modern challenges, including deepfakes and misinformation that lead to societal uncertainties.

Challenges Posed by Disinformation

Vaishnaw portrayed disinformation as a significant issue that nations, including India, are grappling with. He observed that the proliferation of deepfakes and misleading content can cause citizens to question established societal structures. This could lead to a community where skepticism prevails, undermining the very foundations of trust that societies depend upon. Vaishnaw warned that the current environment poses a substantial threat to democratic institutions and social cohesion.

AI’s Impact on Journalism Discussed

Chairperson of DNPA and CEO of Manorama Online, Mariam Mammen Mathew, opened the conclave by addressing the transformative role of artificial intelligence in reshaping news dynamics. She indicated that the convergence of AI technology, evolving data governance, and shifts in platform economics are fundamentally altering how news is produced and monetized. Highlighting the critical juncture at which media stands today, she stated, “Transformation of Media in the Age of Artificial Intelligence is at a critical juncture.”

Focus on Policy and Regulatory Frameworks

The conclave served as a platform for policymakers, media leaders, and industry experts to deliberate on the swiftly changing media landscape in relation to digital governance and innovation. Discussions revolved around creating policy frameworks that can effectively balance innovation, consumer protection, and industry growth in an era dominated by artificial intelligence. Various sessions examined the transformative effects of AI within newsrooms and how these advancements affect content creation and audience engagement.

The Future of Credible Information Extraction

Additionally, the conclave explored shifting audience behaviors and the quest for reliable information sources amidst a fragmented media landscape. The dialogues addressed the importance of building and maintaining trust within the community and the challenges of regulatory changes on stakeholders in the digital media ecosystem. The discussions highlighted who stands to gain, who may incur costs, and the path to creating a competitive and inclusive digital environment for news and information delivery.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share