COPYRIGHT PROTECTION IN THE AGE OF GENERATIVE AI

The rapid advancement of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed content creation by enabling machines to generate text, images, music, videos, and software code with minimal human input. While these technologies promote innovation and creativity, they also pose significant challenges to traditional copyright law, particularly concerning authorship, originality, ownership, and infringement. Existing copyright frameworks were designed to protect human creativity and provide limited guidance on AI-generated works. This paper examines the interaction between generative AI and copyright law, highlighting the legal uncertainties surrounding AI-generated content, the risks associated with the use of copyrighted material for AI training, and the impact on creative industries. It also analyses the Indian legal framework alongside emerging international approaches and emphasizes the need for balanced legal reforms that safeguard the rights of creators while encouraging responsible technological innovation. A clear and adaptive copyright regime is essential to ensure that both human creativity and artificial intelligence continue to thrive in the digital era.