TRAI’s major move regarding AI in telecom—will the rules change?
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within telecom services in India is steadily increasing. Given the growing role of AI in areas such as calling, network management, and digital services, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has launched a new initiative. The Authority has released a draft of guidelines concerning the responsible use of AI in telecom networks and services. The proposals include requirements for telecom companies to formulate AI-related policies, identify risks, and report significant incidents to the regulator.
TRAI has invited suggestions and comments from stakeholders regarding this draft. The deadline for submitting feedback is November 27, 2026. The Authority states that the objective of this initiative is to ensure clarity, transparency, and accountability in the use of AI within the telecom sector. Currently, these guidelines are in the form of a proposal; they will be finalized after considering the inputs received from stakeholders.
Telecom companies must formulate an AI policy.
According to the framework proposed by TRAI, telecom companies and other authorized entities utilizing AI will be required to develop an internal AI policy. This policy must be approved by the company’s Board of Directors or the relevant governing body. It must encompass provisions for the classification of risks associated with AI systems, authorization for their use, procedures for handling incidents, human oversight, data management, and the resolution of customer grievances.
Furthermore, the proposal suggests that companies establish dedicated governance and safety committees to oversee the operation and security of AI systems. The aim is to ensure that AI systems are utilized in compliance with established rules and safety standards.
AI systems to be categorized into three risk levels
The draft proposes classifying AI systems into three categories—high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk—based on their potential impact and associated risks. This classification will be based on the impact on network operations, financial and operational outcomes, and the potential effect on consumers.
TRAI has also clarified that appropriate human oversight of AI systems is essential. A mechanism must be established in advance to allow for human intervention in the event of risks. Whether a company develops an AI system in-house, purchases it from a third party, or outsources it, the relevant telecom entity will remain responsible for the outcomes of its services.
Reporting serious AI-related incidents to TRAI
The proposed guidelines suggest categorizing AI-related incidents into four levels based on their severity: critical, high, moderate, and low. It is proposed that reporting 'critical' and 'high' severity incidents to TRAI—following a prescribed format, method, and timeline—be made mandatory.
Additionally, telecom companies will be required to maintain a central database to record AI-related incidents and consumer complaints regarding harm. This database must also include provisions for investigating incidents, mitigating harm, and resolving complaints.
Why are guidelines for AI in the telecom sector necessary?
Today, the telecom sector extends far beyond phone calls and internet access. It plays a vital role in government services, online commerce, digital payments, and the exchange of critical information. The nation’s essential digital services and emergency communication systems also rely on telecommunications networks. Given the increasing use of AI within these networks and services, it is imperative that the technology be used safely and responsibly.
According to TRAI, these guidelines aim to enhance clarity and accountability regarding the use of AI in the telecom sector. The objective is to establish a framework that enables companies to leverage the benefits of AI while effectively managing the associated risks. Initiative Linked to India’s AI Governance Guidelines
In February 2026, the central government released the 'India AI Governance Guidelines.' The objective is to harness the potential of AI for the nation's development and to strengthen its global competitiveness. It also aims to address the risks associated with potential harm that AI could cause to individuals and society.
These guidelines emphasize seven key principles: trust, a human-centric approach, the promotion of innovation, fairness, accountability, transparency (making technology understandable), and safety, robustness, and stability. TRAI’s new draft is a step toward applying these broad principles within the telecommunications sector and establishing a clear framework for the responsible use of AI.
How to Submit Suggestions by November 27
Submission Process: Stakeholders may submit their suggestions and comments to TRAI via email.
Email Address: Please send your feedback to advmn@trai.gov.in.
Contact Number: For information or clarification, you may reach out at +91-11-20907758.
Deadline: The final date to submit suggestions on the draft guidelines is November 27, 2026.
What Will Be the Impact on Users?
These proposals from TRAI could impact future users of phone and internet services. Telecom companies currently use AI to improve network quality, enhance services, and resolve customer issues. If the new guidelines are implemented, these companies will be held more accountable regarding AI-related risks, security, and the handling of customer complaints. Provisions may also be introduced requiring companies to report serious malfunctions to the regulator and ensure human oversight of AI-driven decisions. However, as these are currently only draft guidelines, there will be no immediate impact on users.
Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.
