New Delhi, Dec10 (UNI) The government has significantly expanded its last-mile communication network for disaster alerts, welfare schemes and public advisories by leveraging Prasar Bharati’s extensive broadcasting platforms, Dr L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting (I&B), informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Stressing the need for timely and accessible information in rural, remote and border regions, the minister said a multi-pronged strategy, covering terrestrial, satellite and digital mediums, is now operational.
“A key pillar of this outreach is the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP)-based Integrated Alert System implemented by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The platform enables geo-targeted dissemination of disaster warnings in regional languages through SMS, mobile apps, the SACHET portal, satellite terminals using GAGAN/NaVIC, and RSS feeds,” he added.
To further enhance accessibility, Prasar Bharati has launched WAVES, an OTT platform that provides live streaming of DD, Akashvani and select private channels. Doordarshan is also running focused public-information programming, with shows such as Charcha Mein, Aapda Ka Samna, Cyber Alert and Cabinet Ke Bade Faisle, along with daily bulletins on government schemes and disaster advisories.
The Minister further informed the House about the ongoing reform of India’s television ratings system. “Draft amendments to the 2014 TRP guidelines were issued in July 2025 to improve accuracy, ensure fair competition, and reflect changing media consumption habits,” he added.
The Minister highlighted progress under the National Film Heritage Mission, which aims to preserve and digitise archival cinema. “So far, 1,469 titles — equivalent to 4.3 lakh minutes — have been digitised and are maintained by the National Film Archives of India,” the minister said.
Addressing concerns about journalists’ welfare, the government said PIB-accredited journalists and their families are covered under CGHS facilities, including treatment at empanelled private hospitals. The Journalist Welfare Scheme (JWS) provides one-time ex gratia support in cases of death, permanent disability, major ailments or serious injuries.
