Asia: Technology

In recent years, overseas generative AI tools such as Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini have gradually entered the daily operations of enterprises. From drafting emails and organizing data to internal collaboration and client communication, these tools have significantly enhanced efficiency.

This month, we unpack India’s long road to unified KYC and the launch of CKYC 2.0, and examine why technical upgrades alone won’t fix cross-sector verification gaps. We also dive into the RBI’s draft PPI Master Directions, which clarify what counts as a stored-value instrument, tighten cash-loading rules, and expand UPI One World wallets for NRIs and foreign tourists.

India's digital and AI regulatory framework has entered a decisive new phase. On 10 February 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (“MeitY”) notified the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Amendment Rules, 2026, introducing a comprehensive regulatory framework specifically addressing Synthetically Generated Information (“SGI”). These amendments, which took effect on 20 February 2026, mark India's response to the proliferation of deepfakes, AI-generated content, and other forms of synthetic media that can deceive users and cause significant harm.