Why is it in the news?

• The Digital India Act 2023 is a proposed legislation aimed at replacing the Information Technology Act 2000 and regulating the digital space in India comprehensively.
• It aims to align India’s regulatory framework with the rapidly evolving digital landscape and address new challenges and opportunities.
• The legislation promotes innovation while safeguarding against potential harms associated with new technologies.

More about the news

• Key provisions of the Act include addressing online safety, data protection, cybercrime, and establishing a Digital India Authority.
• It will work in conjunction with the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill 2022 to enhance data privacy rights and promote a $1 trillion digital economy by 2026.
• It provides guidelines for the responsible use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain, ensuring ethical and legal principles are upheld.
• It upholds the concept of an open internet, balancing accessibility with necessary regulations to maintain order and protect users.
• It mandates stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements for wearable devices and contemplates a review of the “safe harbour” principle for online platforms.
• Benefits of the Act include fostering digital technology development across sectors, addressing cybersecurity and data privacy challenges, and promoting economic growth.
• Challenges in implementing the Act include potential resistance from social media platforms, infrastructure and manpower requirements, balancing stakeholder interests, and dealing with emerging technologies.
• As a citizen, the Act will provide more online choices, protect freedom of expression, safeguard personal data and privacy, enhance online safety, and enable access to emerging technologies for various sectors’ improvement.
• Hence, the DIA represents a forward-looking approach to regulate the digital age and shaping India’s digital landscape for generations to come.