IFPI chief executive Victoria Oakley has told the All About Music conference in Mumbai that India’s music industry has “extraordinary potential” to drive the next wave of global growth – but must tackle key challenges to secure its future.
In a keynote speech to industry leaders, Oakley praised India’s rich and diverse musical heritage, from classical traditions to Punjabi folk, filmi soundtracks and Indian pop.
Oakley highlighted the transformative role of streaming, social media and digital distribution. But she warned that growth must be sustainable, pointing to the misuse of generative AI, streaming fraud and the fact that just 20 million of India’s 192 million streaming users pay for subscriptions.
“These risks are real,” she said. “Music has worth, and paying for it sustains the artists and cultures we love. The decisions we make now will shape the next decade of music.”
She outlined three priorities for the industry:
Grow paid streaming: Shifting away from ad-funded models and towards a value-driven, subscription-led future.
Strengthen collaboration: With labels, platforms, creators and governments working together – whether it’s tackling streaming fraud or building AI safeguards.
Champion regional diversity: Supporting music in local languages and styles to deepen connections at home and abroad.
As part of this commitment, Oakley confirmed that IFPI is working with local partners, the Indian affiliates of major international record companies, and both local and global DSPs to launch official charts in India.
For the first time, these charts will include both international and domestic repertoire, alongside dedicated official local-language charts designed to reflect the breadth of India’s musical landscape.
Victoria Oakley, CEO of IFPI, said: “The decisions we make now will shape the next decade of music. We must choose a path that values creativity, protects human expression, and champions fairness for everyone in the industry. We must never forget that music is made by people, for people.
“Behind every track is a story, a burst of imagination, a struggle, a desire to share. That is what makes this industry powerful – and that is why it is worth protecting.
“So, as India continues to rise as a global music powerhouse, let us work together as labels, platforms, governments, and fans – to build a future where music is valued and celebrated.”
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