Technology may change rapidly, but constitutional values must endure: L Murugan
L Murugan urges creators to use AI responsibly, noting its massive contribution to India's GDP and job market.
In a significant address to the digital community, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, L Murugan, emphasized that while technological advancements move at a breakneck pace, the fundamental constitutional values of the nation must remain steadfast. Speaking at the YouTube Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, the Minister urged the next generation of digital pioneers to embrace artificial intelligence not as a competitor, but as a powerful tool for empowerment.
AI: A Tool for Empowerment, Not Replacement
Addressing the summit themed “Co-Creating Impact: India’s Digital Leadership and the Orange Economy,” Murugan articulated a vision where technology serves human creativity. He stated that the future should not be a battle of AI versus creators, but rather AI empowering creators. He encouraged young talents to approach their work with courage, responsibility, and purpose.
The Minister pointed out that AI can significantly assist in various creative processes, including:
- Writing and translation
- Video editing and animation
- Musical composition and design
- Content distribution
However, he maintained that human imagination remains the essential core of all creative endeavors, stressing that emerging technologies must be used in an accessible, ethical, and responsible manner.
The Economic Might of India's Creative Economy
The summit highlighted the massive scale of India's digital and creative landscape. According to the YouTube Impact Report released during the event, the creative ecosystem has become a vital pillar of the national economy:
- GDP Contribution: The ecosystem contributed more than Rs 18,000 crore to India’s GDP in 2025.
- Employment: The sector supported over 9.6 lakh full-time-equivalent jobs across the country.
- Global Reach: Over 15 per cent of watch time for Indian-produced content comes from international audiences.
- Creator Growth: More than 18,000 Indian YouTube channels have surpassed the one million subscriber milestone.
From Consumers to Global Innovators
Murugan highlighted India's rapid digital transformation, driven by digital payments, public infrastructure, and affordable connectivity. He urged the nation to shift its mindset from being mere consumers of content to becoming creators, and from being users to becoming innovators of intellectual property.
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Create in India, Create for the World,” the Minister discussed the "Orange Economy," which rests on three pillars: content, creativity, and culture. He noted that creativity is not limited to entertainment; it is a driver for jobs, exports, and global cultural influence.
Upholding Constitutional Values in the Digital Age
A central theme of the Minister's speech was the intersection of technology and law. He reminded creators that while digital tools change the geography of opportunity, the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity remain constant.
Referring to Article 19 regarding the freedom of speech and expression, he noted that this freedom is subject to reasonable constitutional restrictions. He emphasized that the liberty to create must be balanced with a sense of responsibility. Furthermore, he cited Article 51A regarding Fundamental Duties, calling for responsible creation, verification, and innovation in the digital era.
Investing in the Future Workforce
To support this growing industry, the government has introduced several initiatives and provisions:
- Educational Infrastructure: The Union Budget 2026–27 includes provisions for AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics) content-creator laboratories in 15,000 secondary schools and 500 colleges.
- Talent Development: Initiatives such as WAVES, IICT, Create in India Challenges, and Gems of India are designed to connect talent with markets.
- Industry Demand: The sector is projected to require nearly 2 million professionals by the year 2030.
Murugan concluded by urging creators to use their unique language and culture to tell stories that resonate globally, encouraging them to take confidence in India's immense diversity.