New Delhi: In a significant push to bridge the media access gap between urban and remote communities, the Indian government has allocated ₹450 crore toward strengthening public broadcasting services under the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) scheme. The initiative, which spans from 2021 to 2026, aims to enhance media reach in rural and tribal areas across the country.
At the core of this effort is the government’s focus on making broadcast content both accessible and affordable. One of the standout successes of this initiative has been DD Free Dish, a free Direct-to-Home (DTH) service operated by Prasar Bharati. Since 2019, the platform has expanded its offering from 104 channels to 510 channels in 2025—bringing a wide range of content to households that were previously unable to afford paid TV subscriptions.
The BIND scheme also covers the modernisation of broadcast infrastructure including the upgrade of TV studios, satellite systems, and transmission networks. These advancements are designed to improve signal quality and deliver a more consistent viewing experience across the country.
To engage digital-native audiences, the government launched a new OTT platform, WAVES, in 2024. The platform integrates programming from Doordarshan and All India Radio, enabling users to access public service media on-demand, from any device.
On the community level, efforts to boost hyperlocal engagement have led to the establishment of 264 community radio stations since 2019. These stations have become vital channels for disseminating information and fostering regional content creation.
In response to service accessibility concerns, particularly in regions like Satna, Madhya Pradesh, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has assured that complaints are being addressed through the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS). While specific resolution data for Satna wasn’t disclosed, the ministry reaffirmed that all grievances are handled through a structured redressal protocol.
According to Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, these initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to a more inclusive media landscape that serves every citizen, regardless of geography or income.
