TRAI Releases Recommendations for National Broadcasting Policy-2024

Central to this vision is the mission to establish India as a leader in the broadcasting sector, leveraging emerging technologies and fostering economic growth over the next decade.

Today, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) unveiled its recommendations for the formulation of the National Broadcasting Policy-2024, aimed at steering India's broadcasting sector towards robust growth and technological advancement.

Initiated by a request from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), TRAI's recommendations were developed following extensive stakeholder consultations and analysis of industry feedback. The process began with a Pre-Consultation Paper in September 2023, leading to a detailed Consultation Paper on 'Inputs for formulation of National Broadcasting Policy-2024' released in April 2024. The subsequent Open House Discussion in May 2024 further enriched the dialogue, incorporating additional insights from stakeholders.

The recommendations outline a visionary approach encapsulated in a clear Vision, Mission, and Goals framework. The Vision aims to foster a competitive and inclusive broadcasting ecosystem that supports quality content creation, promotes cultural diversity, and enhances India's global soft power. Central to this vision is the mission to establish India as a leader in the broadcasting sector, leveraging emerging technologies and fostering economic growth over the next decade.

Key goals identified include the establishment of a robust broadcasting infrastructure, expansion of broadcasting services to underserved areas, promotion of research and development (R&D) in broadcasting technologies, and the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR). The policy also prioritizes enhancing India's role as an 'Uplinking Hub' for television channels and promoting indigenous manufacturing in the broadcasting sector.

In terms of content, the policy emphasizes supporting the production and distribution of quality content across television, radio, and OTT platforms, both domestically and internationally. It aims to position India as a global content hub and encourages the growth of Indian content through films, animation, visual effects, gaming, and music.

Furthermore, the recommendations underscore the importance of safeguarding the rights of content creators, combating piracy, and fulfilling social responsibilities through responsible broadcasting practices, including disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability.

Mohit Soni, CEO of Media Entertainment and Skill Council, highlighted the necessity of nurturing talent and fostering innovation within the sector. He advocated for policies that promote entrepreneurship, support startups, and empower small and medium enterprises in broadcasting.

The comprehensive recommendations are now available for review on TRAI's official website, www.trai.gov.in. Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to provide further feedback and clarifications through designated channels.

For additional information, Shri Deepak Sharma, Advisor (B&CS) at TRAI, can be contacted via email at advbcs-2@trai.gov.in or by telephone at +91-11-20907774.