DNPA Conclave 2025

About The Event

The Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025, held in New Delhi on 27th November, brought together leading voices from journalism, technology, policy-making, and digital media to deliberate on the pressing issues of digital publishing, AI-driven disruption, copyright protection, and the future of news in India. With the theme “Trust, Technology, and Transformation”, the conclave provided a robust platform for dialogue between publishers, policymakers, and innovators.

Key Highlights
1.Navigating the Digital Media Transition Challenges & Opportunities
The panel discussion highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of AI in journalism. Mariam Mammen Mathew noted that AI helps smaller media houses compete with larger ones but stressed the need to balance innovation with responsibility, emphasizing Malayala Manorama’s legacy of “journalism with a human touch” through human oversight of AI content. Anil Malhotra echoed government concerns about deepfakes and misuse, urging collective policy efforts and distinguishing AI as a creative aid rather than a journalist replacement, while stressing credibility as media’s responsibility. Pawan Agarwal raised doubts about the credibility of AI-generated summaries, warned against uncredited use of web content by AI models, and suggested policies to safeguard the open web while acknowledging AI’s role in newsroom efficiency. Puneet Jain warned of a growing misinformation crisis, calling for verified labels, clear identification of AI-generated content, and a collaborative ecosystem across stakeholders. Singhvi emphasized content integrity, editorial oversight, and drew parallels between AI’s trajectory and earlier tech evolutions, stressing the need for timely policies to uphold fairness. Gupt focused on actionable takeaways, highlighting the risks of unregulated AI, urging strict safeguards, and concluding with the unanimous recommendation that AI should be used to enhance newsroom efficiency without compromising credibility or trust.

2.Impact of AI on Digital Marketing Decisions and Ad Spends
At the DNPA Conclave 2025, industry leaders discussed the evolving role of AI in media, marketing, and customer engagement. Mr. Manavdeep Singh highlighted the challenges marketers face in distinguishing between human and bot visitors, emphasizing AI’s role in improving personalization and brand targeting. Mr. Sanjay Sindhwani noted AI’s complexity in tasks like sales forecasting and supply chain management, suggesting success lies in strategic execution. Mr. Vinod Thadani pointed out AI’s ability to analyze sentiment and predict trends, while Mr. Sunny Sen shared a personal story highlighting AI’s promise in customer acquisition despite ongoing ambiguity. Ms. Ranjana Mangla explained PolicyBazaar’s use of AI for customer service and operational efficiency, including innovative tools like Click-to-WhatsApp and “Ask PB.” Mr. Hemant Jain underscored AI’s utility in building communities, citing Dabur's success using AI-driven insights. Mr. Mohit Joshi reflected on AI’s impact over the years, stressing its value in productivity and warning against complacency. Mr. Rajiv emphasized AI’s need for human oversight in decision-making and praised its performance-enhancing potential through tools like Conversion APIs. Mr. Sai discussed AI’s integration into daily life, labeling it the present rather than the future, and championed innovations like Gemini and interactive ambassadors. Ms. Mayura noted Gemini’s role in publishing by aiding content creation and transcription, but stressed the importance of human creativity. Overall, the panel agreed that while AI is a powerful tool, its true potential lies in thoughtful implementation, human collaboration, and continuous experimentation to drive efficiency, personalization, and meaningful engagement.

3.Fireside Chat with Abhishek Singh: Driving India's AI Mission: The Contribution of Digital News Platforms
At the Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025, Mr. Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, MeitY, highlighted the transformative role of AI across sectors, stressing the importance of ethical AI deployment and India’s mission to empower citizens with real-time, credible information. He outlined the government’s commitment through the India AI Mission, backed by an investment of INR 10,732 crores, focusing on seven key areas including expanding computing resources (18,000 GPUs), creating India-specific data platforms, supporting AI in key sectors, training youth, funding startups, encouraging indigenous models, and ensuring AI remains unbiased. He also addressed regulatory needs, stressing a techno-legal approach to tackle issues like misinformation and deepfakes, and highlighted the importance of refining laws as technology evolves. Mr. Puneet Gupt, COO, Times Internet and DNPA Vice Chairperson, discussed the evolution of the mission and emphasized India’s robust AI ecosystem, citing a PwC report predicting a $500 billion digital economy boost and 4.5 lakh new jobs due to AI. He noted the government's proactive steps, like the National AI Program and six expert working groups formed in 2023, to close gaps in India's AI approach. He and Mr. Singh underscored the importance of collaboration among tech firms, media, and legal stakeholders to build a safe, innovative AI ecosystem. Mr. Gupt also emphasized journalism’s unique strengths—rigorous storytelling and ethics—which AI cannot replace, urging media's role in supporting AI through quality datasets and ethical oversight. Mr. Singh concluded by detailing AI business evaluation methods and introducing the “AI for All” model to educate citizens on AI’s benefits and risks. The session ended with an open discussion on the India AI Mission, reinforcing its collaborative and inclusive vision.

4.Panel Discussion: AI vs Human Journalism - Where Do We Draw the Line?
To conclude the Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025, a panel discussed the question, “Where do we draw the line between AI and human journalism?” featuring Mr. Sushil Bahuguna (NDTV India), Sonal Mehrotra Kapoor (Network18), Romana Isar Khan (ABP News), Anant Tyagi (DNA, Zee Media), and moderator Mr. Vikram Chandra (Editorji). Romana emphasized that AI should be a collaborator, not a competitor, highlighting its strength in data processing but its limitations in emotional intelligence and nuance. Mr. Sushil echoed similar concerns, warning about the declining use of libraries, increased reliance on digital media, and the dangers of unchecked AI use without fact-based research. Sonal voiced fears about AI’s growing influence, urging its use to enhance journalism—not replace it—especially in data and research. She argued that AI can't handle complex or emotionally nuanced stories and highlighted the flaws of AI models. Mr. Chandra tested audience opinions through polls, with results showing that AI often matches or exceeds human abilities in data-driven journalism but lacks the depth needed for opinion pieces. On AI in social media and translation, the panel noted AI’s utility but questioned its “feel” and human-like accuracy. Mr. Anant Tyagi supported Chandra’s skepticism and emphasized that AI’s limitations are temporary, believing it may eventually surpass human capabilities. The panel debated the future of AI-based anchors, with concerns about emotionless delivery. Concluding, Mr. Chandra reflected on the possibility of AI surpassing human decision-making and urged the media to consider how AI is governed. Ultimately, the panel agreed that while AI can augment journalism and change the way it’s practiced, it cannot replace the human essence needed for connection, trust, and investigative depth.

5.Global Speaker Address : Drafting & Regulating AI laws
Following two insightful panel discussions, the focus shifted to the legal landscape of AI, particularly around regulatory frameworks to ensure AI remains inclusive, democratic, and ethically grounded. Mr. Michael McNamara, Co-Chair of the European Parliament’s AI Working Group and a key architect of the EU’s AI Act, highlighted how the European Union has taken a pioneering step by establishing the first comprehensive law for defining AI systems and safeguarding against their potential vulnerabilities. He emphasized that while few European laws—aside from GDPR—have sparked such robust debate pre-adoption, the AI Act sets a global precedent for AI governance. Though the EU may lag behind the U.S. and China in AI adoption, its structured implementation model fosters innovation while ensuring public trust and societal protection. Mr. McNamara explained that the AI Act classifies AI systems into four risk categories: unacceptable risk, which includes social scoring and biometric surveillance and is outrightly banned; high-risk AI applications, which require stringent regulations when used in sectors like healthcare or law enforcement; limited risk, which involves lighter oversight for tools like chatbots; and minimal or no risk, which includes uses like spam filters. However, he raised concerns about general-purpose AI models, warning that their training data often includes copyrighted content without consent, thanks to a loophole in the 2019 EU copyright law that permits data mining for scientific research. This loophole, he noted, has been criticized by content creators who find themselves unable to track or receive compensation for their work being used in AI training. As this issue garners global attention, Mr. McNamara expressed hope that future legal rulings would bring clarity and protection for human creators while allowing AI to evolve responsibly. He concluded with two pressing questions facing policymakers worldwide: How can we protect human creators while allowing AI to grow responsibly? And can AI innovation continue without undermining content creators and trusted information sources?

6.How MIB is Steering Media Transformation in India
In the next segment of the Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025, the discussion turned to India’s transformation through AI in the media and entertainment sector—reshaping content creation, distribution, and audience engagement. Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, elaborated on how India is embracing AI, despite challenges like algorithmic bias, misinformation, and fair revenue distribution. He highlighted the sector's 8% growth in 2023, reaching nearly $28 billion, with digital media surging by 15%. Mr. Jaju emphasized India’s evolution into a global creative and tech hub, spotlighting innovations in gaming and VFX, with titles like Avatar: The Way of Water and Raji: An Ancient Epic showcasing AI-driven storytelling. He noted India’s robust OTT ecosystem, where regional platforms like Hoichoi and Aha are bringing local content to global audiences, with regional content now accounting for nearly 50% of national viewership. Mr. Jaju also stressed the power of big data analytics in helping marketers connect with audiences via personalized content and praised India’s growing creator economy. He cited the government’s proactive initiatives, including the “Create in India” challenge under WAVES 2025 to promote collaboration, and the development of the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies to enhance AI-driven innovation. However, he also flagged challenges—especially AI’s role in misinformation and clickbait journalism, where recommendation algorithms worsen credibility issues. He called for stronger regulations and transparency, especially around copyright attribution, noting the absence of a fair compensation system for original content creators. Mr. Jaju affirmed the government’s ongoing efforts to introduce global regulations for digital platforms and a revenue-sharing framework to sustain ethical journalism. He concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a balanced digital media environment that values innovation while upholding responsibility, inclusion, journalistic ethics, and creative excellence.

7.Fireside Chat: Government Perspectives on AI Laws for the News Industry
In a panel discussing AI policy and regulation, several key figures shared insights on balancing innovation and regulation. Shri S. Krishnan emphasized India’s proactive approach under the ‘Make in India’ vision, focusing on AI’s responsible growth and public trust, especially concerning deepfakes and misinformation. Mr. Michael McNamara highlighted the EU’s regulatory progress, including AI labeling requirements and the upcoming EU Code of Practice, while acknowledging challenges in enforcing compliance. He stressed that transparency—particularly labeling AI-generated content—is crucial for user trust. Mr. Anil Malhotra raised the issue of timely AI regulation in India, pointing out the risks from unregulated misinformation and deepfakes. He questioned whether tech giants like Google could support the government in implementation. McNamara also addressed Spotify's AI-labeling approach and the need for platforms to self-regulate. Krishnan noted India’s cautious stance on imposing liability and clarified India’s legal safeguards under Section 69A of the IT Act. He also underlined India’s preference for light-touch, trust-based regulation that supports innovation while protecting public interest. The conversation underscored the global consensus—formed through events like the Bletchley Summit and Paris AI Action Summit—that regulation must protect rights and freedoms without stifling innovation.

8.Panel Discussion : Next-Gen News Media The AI Factor
At the DNPA Conclave 2025, industry leaders and media professionals explored how AI is reshaping digital news and publishing by enhancing productivity, enabling hyper-personalization, and revolutionizing storytelling. Moderated by Mr. Abhishek Partner from PwC, the session included insights from leaders like Mr. Kawaljit Singh Bedi, Mr. Siddharth Srinivasan, Mr. Shaurya Rao Nigam, Mr. Puneet Jain, and others. Mr. Prateek Parekh noted that AI acts as a double-edged sword—improving efficiency while also enabling fake content. Mr. Bedi emphasized that AI should support journalists rather than replace them, leveraging real-life experience for richer output. Mr. Siddharth pointed out that media houses must embrace AI to stay competitive, integrating marketing and editorial tools into a unified system. Mr. Shaurya highlighted AI’s capacity to serve niche language audiences and its operational impact through tools like chatbots and automation. Mr. Puneet Jain praised AI’s potential to make media tech-first and more consumer-centric with Large Language Models. The panel stressed that while AI tools are still maturing, concerns around bias, privacy, and data use must be addressed. Abhishek closed by sharing global insights from the AI and Ethics conference in France and outlined four benefits for media: cost savings, improved reach, localized content, and audience insights—stressing the need to use AI responsibly and creatively.

9.Special Virtual Message: Mr. Brando Benifei, Member of the European Parliament
Mr. Brando Benifei, Member of the European Parliament from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) and a key proponent of the AI Act, emphasized the importance of protecting creativity and the rights of creative professionals amid the rising influence of AI. In a virtual address, he advocated for clear rules around data transparency and highlighted how misuse of AI-generated content and lack of data labeling can lead to misinformation and fake news. He underscored that AI regulation must prioritize human rights, proposing laws to address cybersecurity issues, data misuse, and unethical AI applications such as biometric surveillance and facial recognition in the workplace. Mr. Benifei stressed the need for ethical and responsible AI development, discouraging dangerous practices while promoting the protection of personal freedoms. He also discussed his participation in the Paris AI Summit, where he exchanged views with global leaders and emphasized international cooperation on AI safety, especially concerning cybersecurity and military applications. He called for a consistent, shared level of regulation across countries to ensure citizens are protected from the harms of unchecked AI growth.

10.Panel Discussion : AI: Platform & News - Redefining Reach, Revenue & Responsibility
In an AI-driven media ecosystem, key industry leaders discussed how AI is transforming content creation, distribution, and monetization, while also raising concerns around transparency, content ownership, and the future role of publishers. During a panel session at Storyboard18 Visionaries 2025, moderated by Delshad Irani, Founder of Storyboard18, panelists including Sanjay Sindhwani (CEO, Indian Express Online), Vinod Thadani (Chief Digital Officer, Mindshare), Sunny Sen (Co-founder & CEO, ConsCent), Ranjana Mangla (Sr. VP & Head of Revenue, Sony LIV), and Hemant Jain (President & Head of Digital Business, Lokmat Media) shared their perspectives. Delshad Irani initiated the discussion by highlighting the need to balance innovation and growth with credibility and ethical responsibility. Sanjay emphasized trust and credibility as the pillars of success, warning that these must take precedence over pure monetization. Echoing this, Hemant noted that credibility remains foundational, asserting that AI must be used ethically, as established journalistic norms demand. Mr. Manavdeep Singh added that while AI is enhancing personalization and content delivery, its limitations in non-English content and contextual understanding still pose challenges. He emphasized the irreplaceable role of original content and the ongoing need for traditional media to adapt and innovate. Ranjana pointed out how AI is optimizing cost structures but stressed that the full revenue potential of AI is still unfolding. She cautioned that unless AI is used within structured frameworks by knowledgeable professionals, it may do more harm than good. Collectively, the panel agreed that while AI brings promise and efficiency to the media industry, its success must be grounded in responsibility, credibility, and the long-standing ethics of journalism.

11.Panel Discussion: AI-Powered Fact Checking in News Authenticity & Credibility
The Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025 addressed combating misinformation through AI, featuring a panel including Mr. Jency Jacob, Mr. Pratyush Ranjan, Mr. Apurva Chandra, Mr. Jatin Gandhi, and Mr. Anil Kumar. The discussion highlighted the challenges of fact-checking, emphasizing that while AI can aid by detecting recurring misinformation and analyzing linguistic diversity, human judgment remains essential due to AI's current limitations and the nuanced nature of misinformation. The panelists noted that many fact-checking efforts are still manual and rely on vast video data, but AI's evolving capabilities and the integration of reverse image searches, geolocation, and dashboards promise improved accuracy over time. They stressed the importance of regional language support, ongoing AI training with human oversight, and the need for collaboration between AI and human fact-checkers to effectively counter misinformation in India's diverse linguistic landscape.

Conclusion

The Storyboard18 DNPA Conclave 2025 underscored a critical inflection point for Indian digital publishing. As AI transforms information ecosystems, India must craft policies that ensure a balance between innovation and protection of original journalism. The conclave ended with a strong consensus: “Original content is the foundation of a democratic digital future — and its creators must be protected and rewarded.”

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