In a significant move, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting released a draft bill on November 10th. The government has introduced the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill 2023, aimed at creating a new regulatory framework while focusing on technological advancements in the broadcasting sector.

The Ministry has also sought feedback regarding this draft. Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur took to Twitter, expressing pride in presenting the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Ease of Doing Business and Lifestyle.’ He stated that this vital legislation modernizes our broadcasting regulatory framework, replacing old rules and guidelines with a future-oriented approach. This bill, thus, places emphasis on embracing new technologies.

Revolutionizing Broadcast Services with the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill 2023

The Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill 2023 introduces a unified framework for regulating broadcasting services in the country.

It seeks to amend the existing Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995, and other policy guidelines that currently oversee the broadcasting sector. This bill comprises 6 chapters, 48 sections, and three schedules. Highlighting its key features, a senior official from the Ministry stated that this bill not only extends the regulatory ambit to OTT content, digital news, and current affairs but also keeps the option open for integrating any new platform developed in the future.

Formation of Committees for Content Regulation

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting mentioned that this bill transforms the self-content regulation by reconfiguring assessment committees and inter-departmental committees within the Broadcast Advisory Council for faster decision-making. Additionally, it addresses the specific needs of differently-abled individuals, making broadcasting services more inclusive.