The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, introduced four groundbreaking digital portals, marking a significant step towards modernizing India’s media landscape. These portals aim to streamline business processes for newspaper publishers and TV channels, increase transparency and efficiency in government communications, provide easy access to authentic government videos, and create a comprehensive database for Local Cable Operators (LCOs).
Shri Thakur emphasized that these initiatives align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transformative governance and economic reform, enhancing India’s attractiveness for global investment. The minister noted the remarkable growth in the startup ecosystem and the government’s commitment to creating a level playing field for MSMEs and small businesses.
Press Sewa Portal: Under the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023, this portal automates the process of newspaper registration. It features online applications, a probability meter for title availability, real-time tracking, and a dedicated module for District Magistrates. The portal, along with its AI-based chatbot website, aims to streamline title registration and grievance resolution.
Transparent Empanelment Media Planning and eBilling System: This system for the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) enhances transparency and efficiency in media planning. It includes online empanelment, automated media planning, an integrated eBilling system, a comprehensive mobile app, and advanced technology for real-time analytics.
NaViGate Bharat Portal: Developed by the New Media Wing of the Ministry, this bilingual platform serves as a national video gateway. It offers a unified platform for videos related to government schemes and initiatives, enabling users to search, stream, share, and download content easily.
National Register for LCOs: This register centralizes the registration of Local Cable Operators, facilitating streamlined regulatory processes and policy formulation for the cable television sector.
The Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, 2023 replaces the archaic PRB Act of 1867, simplifying the registration process for periodicals and fostering ease of doing business, especially for small and medium publishers. The Central Bureau of Communication, established in 2017, merges various media units to provide comprehensive communication solutions to government entities.
These portals are a testament to the Ministry’s dedication to fostering innovation, transparency, and progress in the media industry. They are poised to revolutionize India’s media sector by digitizing and modernizing operations, reflecting the government’s efforts to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.