Government Expands Reach of Public Information in Rural Areas
The government is taking significant steps to ensure that vital welfare schemes, public advisories, and disaster-related information effectively reach residents in rural, remote, and border regions. Utilizing its public broadcaster, Prasar Bharati, which includes Doordarshan and Akashvani, the initiative aims for extensive outreach across FM, MW, and SW radio networks, terrestrial TV transmitters, DD FreeDish, as well as various digital platforms.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has introduced the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) based Integrated Alert System. This innovative system allows for geo-targeted dissemination of disaster alerts, which are communicated in regional languages through multiple channels such as SMS, mobile applications, the SACHET portal, satellite terminals, and RSS feeds.
Furthermore, the NDMA is committed to enhancing community preparedness through a series of comprehensive awareness initiatives. These initiatives leverage electronic and print media, produce content in local languages, and engage communities through outreach vans and street plays.
Key Initiatives for Last-Mile Delivery
To further improve the delivery of information, several measures have been implemented across the country:
- Expansion via DD FreeDish: This Direct to Home (DTH) service provides nationwide coverage, including in rural and border areas. It broadcasts all Doordarshan channels, 48 Akashvani channels, select private channels, and over 260 educational channels.
- Focused public-information programming: Doordarshan and DD News are airing dedicated programs and documentaries on government schemes and disaster advisories through daily bulletins and shows like _Charcha Mein_, _Aapda Ka Samna_, _Cabinet Ke Bade Faisle_, and _Cyber Alert_.
- Enhanced digital access: Prasar Bharati has been expanding its social media outreach to share important information. Over 260 Akashvani stations are also accessible through the ‘NewsOnAir’ app for both Android and iOS users.
- WAVES OTT platform: Prasar Bharati has launched WAVES, which allows users to stream Doordarshan and Akashvani channels live, along with selected private news and entertainment options, thereby broadening access for the public.
New FM Stations in Kosi and Purnia Divisions
As part of these efforts, five Akashvani FM stations are now operational in the Kosi and Purnia divisions, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing information accessibility:
| Sl. No. | Locations of Station | District | Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bathnaha (10 kW) | Araria | Purnia |
| 2 | Katihar (100 W) | Katihar | Purnia |
| 3 | Kishanganj (100 W) | Kishanganj | Purnia |
| 4 | Purnia (10 kW) | Purnia | Purnia |
| 5 | Saharsa (100 W) | Saharsa | Kosi |
Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, provided this information during a session in the Lok Sabha, responding to a query posed by Shri Rajesh Ranjan.
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