Chapter-26 : Mass Communication
Short Notes or Revision Notes
GIST of India Year Book 2024
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB)
- Facilitates free flow of information through media (radio, TV, film, press, advertising, traditional forms).
Functional Divisions:
- Information Sector:Disseminates information and raises awareness (print, electronic, digital media).
- Manages acts like Press & Registration of Books Act (1867) and Press Council Act (1978).
- Broadcasting Sector:Oversees public broadcasters (Akashvani, Doordarshan) and regulates private channels.
- Manages Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act (1995).
- Films Sector:Handles film production, distribution, and preservation.
- Administers the Cinematograph Act (1952).
Prasar Bharati (1997)
- India’s public service broadcaster (Akashvani & Doordarshan).
- Mission: Inform, educate, and entertain the public.
New Initiatives:
- Over 100% growth in digital views.
- News-On-Air App (2.5 million users) for accessibility.
- Dedicated YouTube channel for Sanskrit content.
- Global outreach through foreign broadcasters and international relations.
Akashvani (All India Radio) – 1936
- Evolved from private radio clubs.
- Objectives: Information, education, entertainment, unity, and diversity.
- Network: 742 transmitters and 232 radio stations.
Three-Tier Broadcasting System:
- National, regional, and local audiences.
- Primary source of information and entertainment (rural & tribal areas).
Expansion & Modernization:
- New FM transmitters and infrastructure upgrades.
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- DTH services and live streaming (“NewsOn-AIR” app).
Press and Print Media Regulation
- Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI):Oversees newspaper registration, verification, and circulation claims (Press & Registration of Books Act, 1867).
- Jan Vishwas Act, 2023:Decriminalizes and rationalizes offenses under the PRB Act, promoting trust-based governance.
Government Communication
- Press Information Bureau (PIB):Nodal agency for disseminating government information (media liaison).
- New Media Wing (NMW):Manages Ministry of I&B’s social media engagement and disseminates information through online platforms.
Media Standards
- Press Council of India:Preserves press freedom, upholds journalistic standards, and improves media ethics (quasi-judicial body).
Central Government Communication Agencies
- Central Bureau of Communication (CBC):Provides a 360-degree communication solution for government information across traditional and new media (created by integrating DAVP, DFP, and S&DD).
Film Industry Regulation & Education
- Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC):Certifies films based on the Cinematograph Act (e-cinepramaan online portal for streamlined processes).
- Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI):Second national-level film training institute offering postgraduate film diplomas and promoting research in film and television.