Report of the Working Group on Information and Broadcasting For the Tenth Five Year Plan (2002-2007)

Abstract

The Report of the Working Group on Information and Broadcasting for the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2002–2007) outlines a comprehensive framework to expand and modernize India’s broadcasting sector, with emphasis on both infrastructure and content quality. The report emphasizes the need to extend television coverage to the remaining population through cost-effective technologies while maintaining high technical quality and promoting universal access. Recognizing the historical focus on carriage infrastructure at the expense of content, the Working Group recommends increased investment in public service broadcasting, particularly for Doordarshan, to fulfill its mandate of informing, educating, and entertaining citizens. The report highlights the transition to digital production and transmission, including the promotion of digital set top boxes, to ensure convergence-ready content and enhance spectrum efficiency. Automation of production and transmission facilities, along with upgrading major Kendras to digital formats, is proposed to reduce operational costs and improve service quality. The growing entertainment sector, including films, television, and FM radio, requires development of human resources and institutional support, with incentives for government and private sector participation in training. Additionally, traditional media units need better coordination to reach underserved populations with limited access to television and radio. The report also discusses emerging technologies such as High Definition Television (HDTV) and international content distribution modes like webcasting, cable, and satellite, emphasizing affordability and gradual adoption. Overall, the plan aims to strengthen broadcasting as a vital information infrastructure, ensuring wide access, improved content quality, and integration with multimedia services to serve India’s diverse and large population.