New Delhi, Dec 18: The Government of India has undertaken a wide-ranging modernisation drive of public broadcasters Doordarshan and Akashvani, with a focus on content reforms, high-definition broadcasting, digital expansion and revenue generation, the Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday.
Replying to a question in the House, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs Dr. L. Murugan said the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme for 2021–26, with a total outlay of ₹2,539.61 crore, is being implemented to upgrade the technological and operational capabilities of Prasar Bharati.
Under the BIND scheme, priority is being given to digitalisation, replacement of legacy systems, studio and transmitter upgrades, expansion of coverage and adoption of new broadcasting technologies. Several Doordarshan channels are now being telecast in High Definition, while Akashvani and Doordarshan have strengthened their digital presence through the launch of the OTT platform WAVES OTT and integration with the Online NewsONAIR mobile application.
To enhance content quality and diversity, a simplified Content Sourcing Policy was introduced in 2024 to enable faster acquisition of programmes and wider participation. Regional and state centres are increasingly engaging local artists to produce content in regional languages, supported by revised artist and casual assignee remuneration across 66 programme production centres.
Public outreach has also been strengthened through live telecasts of major national events, including Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, WAVES 2025 in Mumbai, and satellite launches by Indian Space Research Organisation.
Akashvani has expanded into new formats with audio-visual podcast series such as The Akashvani Podcast and Akashvani Originals, while structural reforms have been introduced to improve accountability, content planning, market outreach and revenue generation.
The minister said alternative broadcasting modes, including mobile apps, OTT platforms and social media, are being actively leveraged alongside coordinated marketing and cross-channel publicity. As a result of these measures, Akashvani and Doordarshan generated ₹587.78 crore in revenue from non-government advertisements during the 2022–25 period.
The information was provided in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on December 17.
