Mumbai: Prasar Bharati’s twin broadcasters, Akashvani and Doordarshan, generated a combined ₹587.78 crore from non-Government advertisements between 2022 and 2025, the government informed Parliament on December 17, 2025. The update was shared by Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L. Murugan in response to a question in the Lok Sabha by MP Parshottambhai Rupala.
The revenue disclosure comes as the Government of India accelerates a multi-year plan to strengthen public broadcasting in a highly competitive media ecosystem.
BIND Scheme: Driving Modernisation and Digital Upgradation
The modernisation and upgradation of Prasar Bharati are being executed under the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme (2021–26), which has an outlay of ₹2,539.61 crore. According to the government, the scheme focuses on digitalisation, replacement of legacy broadcast systems, transmitter and studio upgrades, coverage expansion, and adoption of new technologies. These interventions aim to strengthen the functioning and audience reach of Doordarshan and Akashvani in an increasingly competitive broadcasting environment dominated by private networks and digital platforms.
Content Expansion and Talent Development
To enhance content quality and variety, the Ministry introduced a simplified Content Sourcing Policy in 2024, enabling wider participation from producers and ensuring faster programme acquisition. New shows are being launched regularly, with Regional and State Centres actively engaging local artists to create programming in regional languages. The government also revised Artist and Casual Assignee rates to attract better creative talent across Doordarshan’s 66 Programme Production Centres, ensuring a stronger pipeline of locally relevant, high-quality content. Doordarshan continues to undertake live coverage of major national events such as Mahakumbh 2025 (Prayagraj), WAVES 2025 (Mumbai), and ISRO’s satellite launches, ensuring wider public outreach.
Technological Upgradation and Digital Presence
Significant progress has been made in strengthening Prasar Bharati’s digital presence. The government said several DD channels have been enabled in High Definition (HD), improving broadcast quality. In addition, the launch of the WAVES OTT platform has brought DD channels and other content into a consolidated digital ecosystem, supplemented by integration with the Online News ONAIR app and other platforms. Akashvani has also expanded beyond traditional radio with new audio-visual podcast formats such as “The Akashvani Podcast” and “Akashvani Originals,” reflecting its shift toward multimedia content delivery.
Structural Reforms and Revenue Strategy
Akashvani has implemented structural reforms, including defined roles for Cluster Heads and Heads of Offices, to focus on revenue generation, content improvement and market outreach. The government said alternative broadcasting modes—including apps, OTT services and social media—are being leveraged more aggressively, supported by cross-channel publicity and coordinated marketing efforts. To enhance revenue further, Prasar Bharati is adopting measures such as improved client engagement, revenue-driven content planning, multi-platform promotion and integrated advertising strategies.
