The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has recently addressed the growing concerns surrounding AI-based news recommendation systems and the regulation of fake news. During a Lok Sabha session on March 26, 2025, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw responded to inquiries from BJP MPs regarding the impact of AI algorithms on news dissemination and the need for accountability among media houses.

The shift from traditional to digital media platforms has raised alarms about AI-driven news recommendation algorithms that often prioritize sensational content over credible journalism. In light of this, MPs Alok Sharma and Janardan Mishra sought clarification on government initiatives aimed at curbing fake news and ensuring responsible practices among media organizations and online platforms.

Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has flagged 1,575 fake news cases since 2022, with 97 cases identified in 2025 alone. This includes 583 cases in 2024, 557 in 2023, and 338 in 2022. The establishment of a Fact Check Unit (FCU) under the PIB aims to address misinformation related to government policies and announcements, ensuring accurate information is disseminated to the public.

In addition to addressing misinformation, the MIB is considering regulatory reforms to modernize the media landscape. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary at MIB, emphasized the need for inclusivity and fair play within the industry while acknowledging the challenges posed by technology. He noted that unchecked misinformation and clickbait journalism threaten democratic values and compromise factual reporting.

Jaju mentioned that the ministry is exploring partnerships with AI institutions and private sector companies to develop tools for monitoring misinformation. This initiative aligns with previous efforts to create an AI dashboard capable of analyzing news stories in real-time and providing alerts for emerging trends.

The focus on AI integration in monitoring misinformation has sparked discussions within the media industry about potential implications for freedom of speech. Previous attempts by the government to fact-check information have faced pushback from various stakeholders, including journalists and media organizations concerned about government overreach in determining what constitutes false information.

As the MIB moves forward with its initiatives, industry experts are closely monitoring how these changes will impact journalism practices and audience trust in media.

The MIB’s commitment to addressing AI-based news recommendations and regulating fake news reflects a proactive approach to enhancing accountability within the media landscape. As technology continues to evolve, balancing innovation with ethical journalism will be crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring accurate information dissemination.

Key Highlights:

• MIB addresses AI-driven news recommendations and fake news regulation during a Lok Sabha session.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared that PIB has flagged 1,575 fake news cases since 2022.
• Regulatory reforms are being considered to modernize media practices while combating misinformation.
• The focus on AI integration raises concerns about freedom of speech within the industry.