Union Minister Inaugurates 28th International Conference on Broadcast and Media Technology in New Delhi

New Delhi: Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Shri Anurag Thakur, inaugurated the 28th International Conference and Exhibition on Broadcast and Media Technology in New Delhi today. The minister emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient broadcasting and media ecosystem in India.

In his inaugural address, Shri Thakur highlighted the Ministry’s role as a steadfast guardian of India’s broadcasting industry, steering it through changes with wisdom and foresight. He commended the efforts in promoting public service broadcasting, implementing inclusive policies, media literacy initiatives, and encouraging private participation, which have collectively contributed to a diverse, informative, and responsible media landscape in the country.

The Minister called for the strengthening of Public Service Broadcasting to provide quality content that reflects India’s rich cultural heritage. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by Prasar Bharati in shaping the nation’s narrative and emphasized the resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence demonstrated by broadcasters from the analog era to today’s dynamic digital landscape.

Shri Thakur emphasized the need for technological advancements in broadcasting equipment and encouraged indigenous research and development to ensure self-reliance in broadcasting. He highlighted the potential of New Direct to Mobile (D2M) technologies, offering exciting content possibilities for terrestrial broadcasting, even on handheld devices without the need for the internet.

Data security was a significant aspect of the Minister’s address, underscoring the importance of safeguarding sensitive information in an interconnected world. He praised India’s efforts in developing indigenous cybersecurity solutions aligning with global data protection regulations.

Addressing environmental concerns, Shri Thakur stressed the importance of embracing sustainable practices in broadcasting operations. India’s research and development in solar-powered broadcast equipment and energy-efficient studios position the country as a leader in sustainable broadcasting.

Acknowledging the shift in audience preferences towards OTT platforms, Shri Thakur urged the industry to adapt content creation strategies, adopt the latest technology, and evolve regulatory frameworks to remain relevant. He also emphasized the need for balanced content regulation, striking a balance between freedom of expression and upholding societal values.

Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of I&B, mentioned the Ministry’s draft broadcast services (Regulation) Bill 2023, emphasizing consumer protection and media transparency. Chairman of TRAI, Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, highlighted the vast growth potential in the broadcasting sector. Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, discussed the challenges posed by evolving technologies and the increasing need for high-quality content in a rapidly changing media landscape.

The BES Expo, according to Shri Thakur, serves as a vital platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging ideas, and forging partnerships that will shape the future of the broadcasting industry.