Academic Use and Academic Writing: Copyright Law, Digital Transformation, and Educational Fair Use in India

India’s digital transformation, propelled by government initiatives, technological advancements, and economic imperatives, has significantly reshaped copyright law frameworks, particularly in academic contexts. The Digital India initiative and related programs highlight the need for legal reforms to address digital piracy and the valuation of digital copyrights, while technological advancements like digital rights management (DRM) and mass digitization challenge traditional copyright norms. Fair dealing provisions under the Indian Copyright Act of 1957 facilitate academic use by allowing limited reproduction for research and education, yet their narrow scope and enforcement complexities hinder their efficacy in the digital age. The rise of digital platforms and open access models further complicates copyright enforcement, impacting accessibility and academic freedom. This paper examines these dynamics, exploring fair dealing’s role in balancing intellectual property rights with educational needs, the challenges of outdated copyright policies, and strategies to enhance digital access and ethical academic practices. It proposes modernizing legal frameworks to support innovation, inclusivity, and equitable access to knowledge in India’s evolving digital landscape.