π‘ CENTRE RELEASES DRAFT UNIFIED BROADCASTING RULES, 2026
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued the Draft Unified Broadcasting Rules, 2026, proposing a single regulatory framework for television, radio, DTH, IPTV, and other broadcasting platforms.
π The rules aim to replace multiple fragmented regulations with a modern and unified broadcasting governance architecture.
π The framework has been formulated under the broader provisions of the Telecommunications Act, promoting regulatory simplification and ease of doing business.
π It introduces a fully digital authorization system, eliminating traditional paper-based approval mechanisms such as the Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA).
π The draft mandates Public Service Obligations (PSO) requiring television channels to broadcast at least 30 minutes per day and radio stations 1 hour per day of content related to national and social importance.
π The reforms seek to improve transparency, reduce compliance burdens, and streamline interactions between broadcasters and the government.
π The framework is expected to strengthen media governance while ensuring wider dissemination of public welfare information.
π― UPSC/RAS Relevance:
β’ Telecommunications Act
β’ Media Governance
β’ Broadcasting Regulation
β’ Public Service Obligations (PSO)
β’ Digital Governance
β’ Ease of Doing Business
π‘ Prelims Fact:
Under the Draft Unified Broadcasting Rules, 2026, television broadcasters may be required to allocate 30 minutes daily, while radio broadcasters may allocate 1 hour daily, for Public Service Obligation content.
π Mains Angle:
"Examine how the Draft Unified Broadcasting Rules, 2026 seek to balance ease of doing business, digital governance, and the state's objective of promoting public service broadcasting."
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