MAIT rejects claims of mandatory source code sharing under MeitY policy: Sources

The Manufacturers’ Association for Information Technology (MAIT) has clarified that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has not mandated compulsory sharing of source code, countering interpretations that suggested otherwise, according to Zee Business sources.

In a statement, MAIT said the Office Memorandum issued by the Government of India on June 18, 2025, clearly overrules any prior interpretations that implied mandatory source code sharing. The association reiterated that MeitY has not imposed such a requirement under the current policy framework.

“The Office Memorandum provides clear guidance and supersedes earlier drafts or discussions related to source code requirements,” MAIT said, adding that the clarification aligns policy implementation with industry best practices while safeguarding intellectual property (IP).

MAIT noted that the amendments to the Indian Telecommunication Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR) are in line with global industry best practices and are designed to protect intellectual property while ensuring security assurance.

The association categorically rejected claims that it has advocated compulsory source code sharing at any stage, calling such suggestions ‘incorrect’ and ‘misleading’.

MAIT also clarified that its internal documents, which have been referenced in some discussions, are meant solely for internal deliberation and knowledge-sharing among members and should not be construed as formal policy positions.

The association said it remains committed to protecting innovation, intellectual property, and the competitiveness of India’s electronics and ICT ecosystem.

MAIT added that it supports security assurance frameworks that balance national security objectives with industry viability, ensuring that compliance requirements do not stifle growth or discourage investment.

“Our role is to provide inputs, analysis, and recommendations to policymakers, not to issue mandates,” the association said.

MAIT also acknowledged and appreciated MeitY’s open, transparent, and consultative approach in developing the ITSAR amendments and related security assurance frameworks.

According to the association, structured consultations have enabled constructive collaboration among industry stakeholders, experts, and policymakers, ensuring that diverse perspectives are taken into account during policy formulation.

MAIT said it looks forward to continuing its active engagement with MeitY on electronics and ICT policy matters, contributing to India’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global electronics and ICT hub.

The association reiterated its commitment to responsible advocacy, industry collaboration, and constructive dialogue with policymakers, and said it will continue to support policies that foster innovation, protect intellectual property, and enhance India’s global competitiveness.