Advertising must build trust, not just reach-
“Advertising must build trust, not just reach,” said Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, while delivering the keynote address at the AdTrust Summit 2026 in Mumbai today. The Union I&B Secretary underlined the urgent need for a responsible, transparent, and credible advertising ecosystem in India, especially as the sector grows in scale, complexity and influence. Shri Jaju emphasized that while the sector should continue to grow, there must also be accountability, especially in the digital space. The I&B Ministry’s approach is focused on building trust, supporting growth and ensuring responsibility, he added.
The first edition of AdTrust Summit 2026, organized by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) brought together representatives from advertising, media, technology, and government sectors to deliberate on key issues related to responsible advertising. The discussions focused on emerging trends, legal frameworks, and the impact of new technologies on advertising practices.
Speaking at the summit, Shri Jaju noted that advertising is more than a commercial activity which shapes markets, builds brands, informs consumers, signals culture, and influences aspirations. In a large and fast-digitising country like India, advertising has become a crucial driver of innovation, economic activity, content creation, and inclusion. Digital platforms and artificial intelligence now enable brands, startups, local businesses, and creators to reach audiences at scale, lowering entry barriers and expanding participation.
In course of the summit, Shri Sanjay Jaju, along with Ms. Manisha Kapoor, Secretary General & CEO, ASCI, Sam Balsara, Chairman, Madison, Sudhanshu Vats, Chairman, ASCI & MD, Pidilite Industries, Praveen Tripathi, Board Member, ASCI and Mr. Ishan Johri & Ms. Tanu Banerjee, Partners, Khaitan & Co, jointly launched the Ad Law Compendium. It will serve as a practical guide on advertising laws and regulations designed to promote greater awareness, understanding, and compliance across the industry.(UPDATED ON 18TH MARCH 2026)
