ThePrint Nishikant-led House panel flags ‘regulatory gaps’ in online media & OTT, calls for more PIB fact-checks
Mar 17, 2026
A parliamentary panel flags regulatory gaps in online media and streaming platforms and urges more official fact-checking. Funding shortfalls for digital ministries and underutilized AI and semiconductor programs are highlighted. Procurement delays for GPUs and structural challenges for AI infrastructure get attention. The report calls for realistic budgets and better inter-ministerial coordination.
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Committee Flags Large MEITY Budget Shortfall
- The Parliamentary Standing Committee found MEITY's proposed budget cut by nearly Rs 6,500 crore and a 17% decline from last year.
- The shortfall highlights funding gaps across India AI Mission and semiconductor incentives, with MEITY seeking Rs 28,169 crore but getting Rs 21,632 crore.
India AI Mission Underspends In Early Years
- India AI Mission spending was very low initially: Rs 9.24 crore in 2024-25 (11% utilization) and Rs 256.86 crore by Dec 2025 (32% utilization).
- MEITY cites institutional setup, consultations and guideline finalization for slow rollout and recent acceleration after the India AI Impact Summit.
Structural Limits Hamper AI Infrastructure Scaling
- The report highlighted structural constraints: high GPU costs, global supply limits, and data center power and water needs.
- It also noted India's R&D spend remains at 0.64% of GDP, described as abysmal for scaling tech infrastructure.