Publishers Urge Govt: Exempt News from AI Copyright, Back Voluntary Licensing

• News publishers advocate for news content to be excluded from mandatory AI copyright licensing due to its constitutional role and time-sensitive value.
• They argue that a one-size-fits-all copyright model would undermine editorial autonomy and distort India's information ecosystem.
• Publishers recommend rejecting mandatory blanket licensing, instead pushing for voluntary, market-based agreements between AI companies and content owners.
• They warn that involuntary licensing risks eroding subscription revenues and advertising income by encouraging AI-generated summaries.
• Key recommendations include safeguarding FDI policy, strengthening transparency, and aligning with international frameworks like Canada's Online News Act.

Why It Matters: Publishers demand news exemption from AI copyright, advocating voluntary licensing to protect journalism and national interest.