Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021
Science & Technology
- PYQs9
- Articles2
Background
These rules are a cornerstone of India's digital governance, impacting fundamental rights, cybersecurity, and the operations of major tech companies. They represent the government's evolving response to challenges posed by online content, misinformation, and emerging technologies like AI. Relevant for GS2 (Governance, Fundamental Rights) and GS3 (Cybersecurity, Technology).
These rules, notified under the Information Technology Act, 2000, establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for social media intermediaries, digital news publishers, and online curated content (OTT) platforms in India, aiming to ensure responsible content dissemination and grievance redressal.
Facts & tables
- Date of Notification
- February 25, 2021
- Parent Act
- Information Technology Act, 2000
- Scope
- Regulates social media intermediaries, digital news publishers, and OTT platforms
- Key Provision
- Part-III mandates a Code of Ethics for digital news publishers and OTT platforms and establishes a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.
- Due Diligence & Grievance Redressal
- Mandates due diligence for intermediaries, including content moderation, user awareness, and a robust grievance redressal mechanism.
- Content Removal Timelines
- Requires removal of unlawful content within specified strict timelines (e.g., 2 hours for nudity/morphed images, 3 hours for court orders/government intimation).
- AI-Generated Content Regulation
- Recent amendments address harms from synthetically generated information (deepfakes) by requiring clear labeling, traceability, and proactive measures by platforms.
- SSMI Obligations
- Significant Social Media Intermediaries (SSMIs) have additional obligations, including enabling identification of the first originator for certain serious offenses like CSAM.
| Content Type | Removal Timeline |
|---|---|
| Nudity/Morphed Images | 2 hours |
| Court Order/Govt. Intimation | 3 hours |
| Grievance Redressal (General) | 36 hours |
| Grievance Redressal (Sensitive) | 24 hours (reduced to 2 hours) |
| Type | Reference |
|---|---|
| Conceptual area | Indian Polity & Governance |
| Conceptual area | Emerging Information Technologies |
| Body | Role |
|---|---|
| Ministry of Information and Broadcasting | Administers and enforces |
| Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) | Formulates policy |
| Social Media Intermediaries | Implements |
| National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) | Monitors compliance |
Prelims angle
Prelims angle: Statement-based questions
Prelims angle: Factual recall
- Notified on Feb 25, 2021, under IT Act, 2000.
- Regulates social media, digital news, and OTT platforms.
- Part-III includes Code of Ethics for digital media.
- Establishes a three-tier grievance redressal mechanism.
- Aims to address unlawful content and ensure responsible online conduct.
Treaty = agreement between states; body = institution.
| Year | Framing tags |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2026 | Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding |
| 2018 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2017 | Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall |
| 2017 | Factual recall, Multi-statement analysis |
| 2017 | Statement-based questions, Policy measures |
| 2016 | Definition-based questions, Terminology-based question |
| 2016 | Statement-based questions, Factual recall |
Timeline
-
Indian Polity & Governance
Conceptual area
-
Emerging Information Technologies
Conceptual area
-
Prelims 2016
Definition-based questions, Terminology-based question
-
Prelims 2016
Statement-based questions, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2017
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2017
Factual recall, Multi-statement analysis
-
Prelims 2017
Statement-based questions, Policy measures
-
Prelims 2018
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Factual recall
-
Prelims 2026
Multi-statement analysis, Conceptual understanding
-
50 OTT Platforms Disabled in Last Two Years for Displaying Obscene Content and Violations of IT Act and Other Applicable Laws
The IT Rules, 2021, notified under the IT Act, 2000, regulate digital media and OTT platforms, imposing a Code of Ethics and a grievance redressal mechanism to address unlawful content and ensure responsible online conduct.
-
Government Strengthens Online Safety for Children with Stricter Action Against Child Sexual Abuse Material on Social Media
The IT Rules, 2021, under the IT Act, mandate due diligence for digital intermediaries, setting strict timelines for content removal, establishing grievance mechanisms, and recently updated to tackle AI-generated harmful content and deepfakes, ensuring a safer online environment.
See also
Past papers
2016–2026 · 9 questions
In the news
Government Strengthens Online Safety for Children with Stricter Action Against Child Sexual Abuse Material on Social Media
The IT Rules, 2021, under the IT Act, mandate due diligence for digital intermediaries, setting strict timelines for content removal, establishing grievance mechanisms, and recently updated to tackle AI-generated harmful content and deepfakes, ensuring a safer online environment.
50 OTT Platforms Disabled in Last Two Years for Displaying Obscene Content and Violations of IT Act and Other Applicable Laws
The IT Rules, 2021, notified under the IT Act, 2000, regulate digital media and OTT platforms, imposing a Code of Ethics and a grievance redressal mechanism to address unlawful content and ensure responsible online conduct.
Try these PYQs
Regarding ‘DigiLocker’, sometimes seen in the news, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is a digital locker system offered by the Government under Digital India Programme.
2. It allows you to access your e-documents irrespective of your physical location.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
Statement 1 is correct: DigiLocker is a cloud-based digital locker system launched by the Government of India under the Digital India Programme. Its primary objective is to reduce reliance on physical documents by providing secure digital storage and access to e-documents issued by government departments, educational institutions, and other entities. Statement 2 is correct: DigiLocker enables users to access their electronic documents (e-documents) anytime, anywhere, provided they have an internet connection. This enhances convenience, eliminates the need to carry physical documents, and ensures secure and verifiable digital storage. Therefore, both statements are correct.
The term ‘Core Banking Solution’ is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following statements best describes/describe this term?
1. It is networking of a bank’s branches which enables customers to operate their accounts from any branch of the bank on its network regardless of where they open their accounts.
2. It is an effort to increase RBI’s control over commercial banks through computerization.
3. It is a detailed procedure by which a bank with huge non-performing assets is taken over by another bank.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A core banking solution is a centralized system that integrates various banking functions across a bank's branches. It allows for:
- Networked branches: Customers can access their accounts and conduct transactions from any branch within the bank's network, regardless of where they originally opened their account.
- Improved efficiency: CBS automates many manual processes, leading to faster transactions and better customer service.
- Centralized data management: All customer information and account data are stored in a central location, facilitating easier access and record keeping. Therefore, the correct answer is 1 only.
Which of the following statements about DHRUV64 is/are correct ?
1. It is the third chip fabricated under the DIR-V Programme with an overall aim to enable the creation of microprocessors for India.
2. It is India's first homegrown 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Statement 1 is Correct: DHRUV64 is the third chip to be fabricated under the Digital India RISC-V (DIR-V) Programme. The first chip was THEJAS32 and the second was THEJAS64. The DIR-V programme aims to create a complete portfolio of future-ready, indigenous RISC-V-based microprocessors to reduce India's dependence on imported chips and foreign intellectual property. Statement 2 is Correct: Developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), DHRUV64 is officially recognized as India's first homegrown 1.0 GHz, 64-bit dual-core microprocessor. It is built on the open-source RISC-V instruction set architecture, which eliminates proprietary licensing fees and ensures technological sovereignty. Therefore, both statements are correct.
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017?
1. It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade.
2. It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country.
3. It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Smart India Hackathon (SIH) is not a scheme for developing Smart Cities. Instead, it is a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying innovative digital technology solutions to solve real-world challenges across various sectors. Statement 2 is correct: The Government of India launched the Smart India Hackathon to encourage students and professionals to develop innovative digital solutions for challenges in agriculture, health, education, energy, environment, and other domains. It serves as a platform for young minds to engage in problem-solving and contribute to technological advancements. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the hackathon focuses on digital technology innovations, it is not specifically centered on digital financial transactions. Instead, it covers a wide range of sectors where technology can drive efficiency and innovation. Hence, correct answer is option (B).
Which of the following statements with regard to the National Quantum Mission (NQM) is/are correct?
1. It aims at developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits.
2. Its implementation includes setting up of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in academic and national R&D institutes across India.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Statement 1 is Correct: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50 to 1000 physical qubits within 8 years. Specifically, it targets 50–100 physical qubits in 5 years and scales up to 50–1000 physical qubits in 8 years using platforms like superconducting and photonic technology. Statement 2 is Correct: The implementation of the mission explicitly includes the establishment of four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) in top academic and national R&D institutes across India. These hubs focus on distinct technology verticals: Quantum Computing (led by IISc Bengaluru), Quantum Communication (led by IIT Madras), Quantum Sensing & Metrology (led by IIT Bombay), and Quantum Materials & Devices (led by IIT Delhi). Therefore, both statements are correct.
Show 4 more PYQs
In India, it is legally mandatory for which of the following to report on cybersecurity incidents?
1. Service providers
2. Data centres
3. Body corporate
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
In India, section 70-B of the Information Technology Act, 2000 (the IT Act) gives the Central Government the power to appoint an agency of the government to be called the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team. Further, it is legally mandatory for service providers, data centres and body corporates to report on cybersecurity incidents as outlined in the Information Technology (The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and Manner of Performing Functions and Duties) Rules, 2013, which were notified under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
Which of the following statements about Real-World Assets (RWA) Tokenization are correct?
1. Tokenization is the process of turning real world assets into digital tokens using blockchain technology.
2. Tokenization of real world assets offers 24x7 access, promoting financial inclusion.
3. Tokenization of real world assets will allow the access to high growth investment opportunities for individuals in India.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Statement 1 is Correct: Real-World Asset (RWA) Tokenization is the process of converting the ownership rights of physical or traditional financial assets (such as real estate, gold, commodities, or bonds) into digital tokens on a distributed ledger or blockchain. Each token represents a proportional share or claim on the underlying asset. Statement 2 is Correct: Unlike traditional financial markets and real estate registries that have fixed operating hours, geographic limitations, and settlement delays, blockchain-based tokenized assets can be traded globally, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with near-instant settlement. Additionally, tokenization allows high-value, traditionally illiquid assets to be divided into smaller, affordable fractions. This lowers the barrier to entry, enabling retail investors and underserved populations to participate in wealth-building markets, thereby directly promoting financial inclusion. Statement 3 is Correct: In the Indian context, RWA tokenization democratizes access to high-growth, capital-intensive sectors (like commercial real estate, agricultural land, and infrastructure projects). Regulatory bodies like the IFSCA (in GIFT City) have already begun approving tokenization platforms under regulatory sandboxes to unlock these previously inaccessible investment opportunities for everyday Indian retail investors. Therefore, all three statements are correct, making the correct option A.
"3D printing" has applications in which of the following?
1. Preparation of confectionery items
2. Manufacture of bionic ears
3. Automotive industry
4. Reconstructive surgeries
5. Data processing technologies
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. It is used in a wide range of industries and has various applications. It can be used to create intricate and customized shapes in confectionery items like chocolates, candies, and other desserts. It has been used to create customized bionic ears for people with hearing impairments. It is used in the automotive industry for rapid prototyping, manufacturing of customized parts, and even some production of vehicle components. It is used in reconstructive surgeries to create patient-specific implants, prosthetics, and surgical guides. It can be used to create specialized components and parts for data processing technologies, such as computer hardware. Therefore, all the five statements are correct.
Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create the digital display in many devices. What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays?
1. OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates.
2. Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs.
3. Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is a light-emitting diode (LED) in which the emissive electroluminescent layer is a film of organic compound that emits light in response to an electric current. Statement 1 is correct: One of the key advantages of OLED technology is that the organic light-emitting materials can be deposited on flexible plastic or metal foil substrates, enabling the creation of flexible and foldable displays. Statement 2 is correct: The flexibility of OLED displays allows for the creation of roll-up or rollable displays, which can be integrated into clothing and other flexible surfaces. Statement 3 is correct: OLED display technology can be used to create transparent displays, where the light-emitting pixels can be made semi-transparent, allowing the display to be integrated into various surfaces and objects. Therefore, all three statements are correct.