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.