Information & Broadcasting (I&B) Minister Prakash Javadekar, while responding to question in Lok Sabha gave indication that the government might consider opening up the analogue terrestrial network for private broadcasters.
The minister said that Doordarshan was digitising its analogue terrestrial network. Currently, the terrestrial networks are the sole domain of the public broadcaster.
“Consequently, the number of digitised channels would go up. DD would thereafter be in a position to invite private free-to-air TV channels for meaningful business plan in this regard.”
This was one of the options provided by the Sam Pitroda committee earlier this year. The committee had recommended two options: one to totally move the pubcaster to satellite transmission via DD Direct. And, two, to upgrade its analogue terrestrial network to DVBT2 to meet its need to deliver content meeting both national and regional coverage needs.
The committee had also suggested that Doordarshan must expand its satellite and digital cable TV operations.
The switch from terrestrial to satellite transmission will result in considerable cost saving, even as it offers the possibility of a wider content variety in comparison with the limited number of channels available through terrestrial broadcasts, the report had said.
Source: http://cablequest.org/news/national-news/item/5471-cq-govt-plans-to-open-terrestrial-networks-for-private-broadcasters.html
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