Frames & Frameworks: Legal Primer on M&E Landscape

Frames & Frameworks: A Legal Primer on the Regulatory Landscape of India's Media & Entertainment Industry, a joint report by FICCI and Khaitan & Co, was unveiled at the FICCI Media and Entertainment Business Conclave 2025 in Chennai. Valued at USD 26.2 billion, India’s M&E industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation, shaped by evolving consumer behavior and an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. This collaborative report serves as a vital resource for stakeholders, offering insights into key policy changes, legal frameworks, and business dynamics—ranging from digital transformation to AI’s impact on content creation and rights management.

The Indian Media & Entertainment sector has evolved significantly in the last few years, fueled by technological advancements, digital adoption, and government initiatives to enhance digital infrastructure. As the industry continues to transform, regulatory frameworks will also evolve to address emerging challenges while balancing growth and innovation. The collaboration between FICCI and Khaitan & Co on this legal primer aims to provide industry stakeholders with insights into prevailing legal and regulatory frameworks, assisting them in navigating the dynamic landscape.

Key industry trends covered in the report include the enforcement of strict compliance on data collection, consent, and retention in M&E under the DPDP Act 2023. The expansion of India’s gaming sector is also highlighted, with regulations distinguishing skill-based gaming from games of chance. Additionally, the report emphasizes the strengthening of intellectual property frameworks to address AI-generated works, blockchain-based rights management, and performers' rights. Rising threats of content piracy are prompting advocacy for blockchain-based rights management and stricter enforcement mechanisms. Furthermore, legal concerns over AI-driven content, including copyright issues, deepfakes, and regulatory oversight in India, are examined. The report also highlights the dominance of South Indian cinema at the box office, driven by blockbuster hits like RRR and KGF Chapter 2.

This comprehensive legal primer provides a crucial reference for industry stakeholders, enabling them to stay informed about the regulatory landscape and leverage insights to foster sustainable growth in India's evolving media and entertainment ecosystem.