Government proposes changes in copyright rules, may benefit websites, music streaming firms
New Delhi: The government is proposing a mechanism to ensure that songs and videos reach maximum number of people at an affordable price, which in case of dispute may be fixed by a quasi-judicial body Intellectual Property Appellate Board (IPAB).
These changes are proposed in the Copyright (Amendment) Rules, 2019, the draft of which has been made public by the commerce and industry ministry for stake holders' views and comments till June 29.
Once the changes are approved, it would become easier for websites, portals and music streaming firms to buy contents (songs and videos) and upload them.
However, the move could hurt the commercial interest of content owners of songs and videos.
Currently, the Act covers only radio, and TV broadcast firms are allowed to take permission from the owners and negotiate a price bilaterally or through IPAB under Section 31D of the Act.
Now, the draft rule proposes to cover companies operating through digital mode like websites and music streaming firms.
"In order to ensure smooth and flawless compliance of Copyright Act in the light of technological advancement in digital era and to bring them in parity with other relevant legislations, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has now proposed to introduce the Copyright Amendment Rules, 2019," an official statement said.
The copyright regime is governed by the Copyright Act, 1957, and the Copyright Rules, 2013. The rules were last amended in 2016.
An official source said that although the Act provides protection and rights to the content owners but at the same time, it is their responsibility to make available that content to more and more people at affordable prices.
"The content owners should not have the sole monopoly over the content and it should reach more and more people," the source said.
An expert said that to implement the proposal, the government would also have to amend the Copyright Act.
Amit Dutta, partner, Saikrishna Associates, said the Act only talks about radio, television and not about any other mode of communication.
The government will have to amend the Act to give effect to the amendments being proposed in the rules.
"The proposed changes are against the interest of song and video content owners. There is a high court ruling also in the favour of the owners," Dutta said.
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Easter celebrated with zeal across Goa; devotees throng churches
Panaji (PTI): Goa erupted in festive joy on Sunday, as thousands of devotees thronged churches and chapels across the coastal state to celebrate Easter, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ with midnight vigils and traditional feasts.
From the historic cathedrals of Old Goa to small chapels in Salcete and Bardez, thousands of devotees attended midnight and morning services to witness the blessing of the Paschal candle, marking the end of the 40-day Lenten fast.
In many villages, the festival also heralds the season of feasts in churches and community festivities, a cherished cultural tradition in the coastal state.
Streets around major churches teemed with vehicles, causing heavy traffic as worshippers and visitors attended services.
Priests, in their Easter homilies, emphasised hope, renewal and compassion, urging the faithful to carry the spirit of sacrifice and resurrection into their daily lives.
Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant extended warm greetings to the people of Goa.
Easter symbolises hope, renewal and the triumph of life over adversity, Raju said.
The governor, in his message, stated that the festival commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, reminding people of the values of compassion, forgiveness and faith, which are essential for building a harmonious and inclusive society.
The chief minister described Easter as a celebration of new beginnings, brotherhood and humanity.
The festival carries a deeper message of faith and hope, he said, appealing to the people to live out that message through acts of love and service.
VIDEO | Goa: Midnight Easter mass held at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 5, 2026
(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/dv5TRAShcC) pic.twitter.com/rTSrWuaKae
