Light-touch regulations to enable innovative content creation, says I&B Secretary
The Hindu
Empowering India's creators through light-touch regulations for innovative content creation and deeper listener engagement in broadcasting.
Union Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju on Wednesday (December 11, 2024) said light-touch regulations would enable innovative content creation and deeper listener engagement by empowering India’s creators.
Speaking at a conference organised by the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) in collaboration with the Association of Radio Operators for India (AROI) on ‘Future of Digital Radio Broadcasting in India’, Mr. Jaju said: “We stand at the threshold of a new era brimming with possibilities and opportunities in broadcasting. Light-touch regulations will enable innovative content creation and deeper listener engagement, empowering India’s creators. Radio derives its strength from localised content choice embracing diverse community interests and cultural preferences.”
“Technology adoption, even in far-flung areas must happen while developing an ecosystem to facilitate deployment of digital radio broadcasting in India. As part of our efforts, we are set to roll out digital FM radio broadcasting in 13 metros and major cities in the coming months, marking a significant step forward,” he said.
“This initiative arrives at a crucial juncture as the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) engage in public consultations for a Digital Radio Broadcast Policy for private broadcasters,” read a release issued by the organisers.
Highlighting the significance of digital radio, ICEA chairman Pankaj Mohindroo said: “Radio has been a revolutionary force in connecting people and communities, and it remains an incredible national asset. The transition to digital radio is not just essential — it is overdue. We need to adopt a technology which is proven and can go across various product segments, enhancing the efficiency of the existing radio operators without disruption. With India’s rich cultural landscape, the digital radio technology offers unparalleled opportunities for innovation, multilingual content, and varied genres tailored to India’s diverse demography.”
AROI secretary general Uday Chawla said, “Today’s interaction marks a historic milestone, bringing together two transformative industries — radio, with its unparalleled reach of nearly 80% and status as a free-to-air medium, and the electronics manufacturing sector, which has positioned India as a global export leader. By fostering collaboration, we empower consumers with choices and create a solid foundation for the growth of both sectors.”
He said developing an advanced ecosystem, supported by technologies like HD Radio, strengthened India’s vision as a global manufacturing hub for digitally-enabled devices, boosting exports, especially in markets like the Americas.
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