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National Broadcast Policy 2024 unveils blueprint for broadcasting sector advancement
Mumbai: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recently put forth recommendations for shaping the ‘National Broadcasting Policy-2024’ aimed at establishing a robust broadcasting ecosystem. The policy sets out a comprehensive roadmap for the next decade, with a focused strategy for the upcoming five years.
The policy seeks to promote resilient, adaptable, and technologically agile infrastructure that encourages research and development, technological innovation, and local manufacturing. It also strives to create a fair competitive environment, enhance ease of doing business and drive economic growth by ensuring widespread access to broadcasting services.
“The National Broadcasting Policy-2024 aims to build a strong broadcasting ecosystem by fostering growth-oriented policies and regulations supported by data-driven governance,” stated TRAI.
One of the key goals is to position India as a global ‘Uplinking Hub’ for television channels, attracting investments, generating employment and promoting skill development. Additionally, the policy focuses on fostering quality content production and distribution across television, radio, and OTT platforms, while promoting Indian content both domestically and internationally.
In July 2023, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) requested TRAI’s insights under Section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997, to aid in formulating this policy. Following a preliminary consultation paper in September 2023, TRAI released the formal consultation paper on ‘Inputs for formulation of National Broadcasting Policy-2024’ on 2 April. Feedback was gathered from 42 stakeholders, including service providers, organizations, industry associations, consumer advocacy groups and individuals.
Indiantelevision.com reached out to Media Care Brand Solutions director Yasin Hamidani where he provided his perspective on the policy.
He stated that, “The National Broadcasting Policy 2024, with TRAI’s recommendations for a transparent and credible audience measurement and rating system for television, radio, and OTT services, offers several significant advantages. On the positive side, this initiative will enhance the accuracy and reliability of audience data, fostering trust among broadcasters, advertisers, and consumers.
A transparent system will enable fair competition, encouraging innovation and quality content creation tailored to audience preferences. It will also ensure that smaller and emerging players have a fair chance to compete, potentially diversifying the media landscape.
However, there are potential challenges to consider. Implementing a new measurement system requires substantial investment in technology and infrastructure, which could be a financial burden for some stakeholders. Additionally, there is a risk of resistance from established players accustomed to the existing system. Ensuring the security and privacy of audience data is another critical concern, as any breaches could undermine trust in the system.
Despite these challenges, the overall impact of the NBP 2024 is poised to be transformative, driving the broadcasting sector towards greater accountability, inclusivity, and alignment with evolving technological advancements,” he concluded.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
