The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) on August 24, 2026, issued advisory on Display of warnings regarding harmful effects of drug abuse on OTT platforms.
The Ministry has advised OTT platforms to exercise due caution while depicting narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and ensure compliance with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 and the Code of Ethics under the Information Technology Rules, 2021. Platforms are also required to provide appropriate content classification, warnings and disclaimers highlighting the harmful consequences of drug abuse, in continuation of the advisory issued on November 26, 2024.
Accordingly, OTT platforms have been advised to clearly, legibly and prominently display the warning — “Illicit drugs destroy health and guarantee imprisonment. Say no to drugs.” — during scenes depicting drug abuse. The warning must be displayed in an easily readable font, colour and size for sufficient duration to ensure visibility and understanding, and OTT platforms are required to ensure compliance for all content released on or after the date of the advisory.
[Notification No. DM/30/2026-DM Government]
