India Modernizes Public Broadcasting with Rs. 2,539 Crore BIND Scheme
The Government of India has approved the expansion of High Definition (HD) channels for Doordarshan and Akashvani, alongside the launch of the WAVES Over-The-Top (OTT) platform, as part of the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme with an outlay of Rs. 2,539.61 crore.
Announcement in Parliament
The details were shared by Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan in the Lok Sabha on December 17, 2025, responding to a question from Shri Parshottambhai Rupala. This update outlines ongoing efforts to modernize Prasar Bharati's infrastructure, enhancing the reach and quality of public broadcasting services in a competitive media landscape.
Doordarshan and Akashvani, flagship public broadcasters under Prasar Bharati, are undergoing comprehensive upgrades. Akashvani currently operates 591 broadcasting stations across the country, expanding nationwide public radio outreach. These initiatives aim to strengthen content delivery, audience engagement, and revenue generation through technological and structural reforms.
Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme
The BIND Scheme, spanning 2021-26, allocates Rs. 2,539.61 crore for the modernization of Prasar Bharati. Key focus areas include digitalization of operations, replacement of legacy systems, upgradation of studios and transmitters, expansion of coverage, and adoption of new technologies. This scheme directly supports the rollout of HD channels and the WAVES OTT platform.
Under BIND, several Doordarshan channels are now telecasting in High Definition, improving visual quality for viewers. Akashvani is similarly advancing its HD capabilities, ensuring clearer audio transmission. The WAVES OTT platform integrates DD channels and other content, providing on-demand access via digital devices. This platform strengthens the digital presence of public broadcasters, complementing traditional terrestrial and satellite transmission.
Government Modernises Doordarshan and Akashvani with Rs. 2,539.61-Crore BIND Scheme, HD Channels, WAVES OTT and Content Reforms.
These upgrades address the shift towards digital consumption, where audiences increasingly prefer streaming services. By launching WAVES, Prasar Bharati positions itself to compete with private OTT players while maintaining its public service mandate of delivering credible, diverse content to all regions, including remote areas.
Content Quality and Sourcing Reforms
To bolster programming, a simplified Content Sourcing Policy was introduced in 2024. This policy facilitates wider participation from producers and enables faster acquisition of programmes, streamlining the process from ideation to broadcast.
Regional and State Centres of Doordarshan engage local artists to create content in regional languages, fostering cultural relevance. Artist and casual assignee rates have been revised upward to attract skilled talent. This supports production across 66 Programme Production Centres nationwide.
New programmes are launched regularly, covering education, rural development, and national events. Live coverage examples include Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, WAVES 2025 in Mumbai, and ISRO satellite launches. Such broadcasts ensure wide public outreach, informing citizens on key developments in real time.
Akashvani's Digital Innovations
Akashvani has introduced audio-visual podcast series titled “The Akashvani Podcast” and “Akashvani Originals”. These are available on the Online NewsONAIR Mobile app and other digital platforms, expanding beyond radio waves to visual formats.
Structural reforms at Akashvani define clear roles for Cluster Heads and Heads of Offices. Emphasis is placed on revenue generation, content improvement, and market outreach. Alternative modes like apps, OTT, and social media are leveraged, backed by cross-channel publicity and coordinated marketing.
Revenue Generation Strategies
Non-Government advertisement revenue for Doordarshan and Akashvani reached Rs. 587.78 crore from 2022 to 2025. To sustain growth, measures include improved client engagement, revenue-oriented content planning, multi-platform promotion, and integrated advertising strategies.
These efforts align with BIND's goals, reducing dependency on government funding while enhancing financial viability. Public broadcasters can invest more in quality content and infrastructure without compromising accessibility.
Expansion of HD Channels
The transition to HD for Doordarshan channels marks a significant technological leap. HD broadcasting offers sharper images and better sound, comparable to private channels. Several DD channels are already live in HD, with plans for further expansion under BIND.
Akashvani's HD rollout improves radio quality, crucial for its 591 stations serving diverse geographies. This upgrade benefits rural listeners, where radio remains a primary information source for agriculture, health, and governance updates.
Implementation involves studio upgrades and transmitter enhancements. BIND funding ensures nationwide coverage, bridging urban-rural digital divides. Viewers with HD-compatible TVs or devices will experience improved programming, from news to cultural shows.
WAVES OTT Platform Launch
WAVES OTT integrates Doordarshan channels, Akashvani content, and additional programmes. Users access live streams, archives, and podcasts on mobiles, tablets, and smart TVs. This launch under BIND responds to rising OTT adoption in India.
The platform supports regional languages, aligning with India's multilingual fabric. It includes live event coverage, educational content, and public service announcements. Integration with NewsONAIR app creates a unified digital ecosystem for Prasar Bharati.
Public impact includes greater accessibility for diaspora audiences and younger demographics preferring on-demand viewing. Schools and rural centres can use WAVES for distance learning, supporting education initiatives.
Administrative and Operational Impacts
Administratively, BIND streamlines Prasar Bharati's operations. Digitalization reduces maintenance costs of analog systems, freeing resources for content creation. Transmitter upgrades expand signal reach to underserved areas.
Content reforms empower 66 production centres, boosting local employment. Revised artist rates attract professionals, elevating programme standards. Structural changes at Akashvani enhance efficiency through defined leadership roles.
Government service delivery improves via public broadcasting. Announcements on schemes, healthcare, and rural development reach millions instantly. Live national event coverage fosters unity and awareness.
Broader Public Service Mandate
Doordarshan and Akashvani uphold public service by providing unbiased information. HD and OTT expansions ensure relevance amid private media dominance. BIND's Rs. 2,539.61 crore investment signals long-term commitment to infrastructure.
Audience reach grows through digital platforms. Social media and apps amplify content, engaging tech-savvy users. Coordinated marketing cross-promotes channels, maximizing visibility.
Rural development benefits from targeted programming. Regional content addresses local issues like farming techniques and health campaigns. This aligns with national goals of inclusive growth.
Technological Adoption
BIND emphasizes new technologies like OTT and HD. Legacy system replacement modernizes workflows. Digitalization enables data analytics for audience insights, refining content strategies.
Coverage expansion targets border and island regions. Enhanced transmitters improve reliability during monsoons or disasters, ensuring emergency communications.
Financial Sustainability
Rs. 587.78 crore in ad revenue underscores viability. Strategies like multi-platform ads tap diverse clients. Revenue growth supports self-reliance, minimizing fiscal burden.
Client engagement focuses on MSMEs and regional advertisers. Content planning prioritizes high-demand genres, balancing public service with commercial appeal.
Future Outlook
Ongoing BIND implementation promises phased rollouts. More HD channels and WAVES features are expected. Content diversification will continue, with emphasis on regional and original productions.
Parliamentary disclosure ensures transparency. Public broadcasters' evolution positions them as digital leaders, serving India's 1.4 billion population effectively.
Stakeholders anticipate sustained revenue growth and audience expansion. These reforms strengthen governance communication, informing citizens on policies and achievements.
Key Components Summary
- BIND Scheme outlay: Rs. 2,539.61 crore (2021-26).
- HD channels for DD and Akashvani.
- WAVES OTT platform launch with integrated content.
- 591 Akashvani stations operational.
- Rs. 587.78 crore non-Govt ad revenue (2022-25).
- 66 Doordarshan production centres.
These developments, announced on December 17, 2025, mark a pivotal step in public broadcasting modernization.
The Ministry's response highlights sustained measures for competitiveness. Content policy of 2024 and podcast launches exemplify proactive adaptation.
Infrastructure upgrades under BIND ensure long-term resilience. Public access to quality media advances information equity across India.
Event Coverage Examples
Mahakumbh 2025 coverage reached millions spiritually. WAVES 2025 event broadcast showcased industry. ISRO launches informed on space progress.
Such initiatives demonstrate broadcasters' role in national narrative.
Digital expansions like WAVES and NewsONAIR app cater to mobile-first users. Podcasts blend audio heritage with video appeal.
Regional and Local Focus
Engagement of local artists preserves culture. Regional language content connects with diverse audiences. Production centres drive employment in media sectors.
Rate revisions incentivize talent retention. Simplified sourcing accelerates fresh programming.
Rural outreach via radio and TV supports schemes like healthcare and education drives.
Revenue and Marketing Reforms
Cluster head roles optimize operations. Market outreach targets new advertisers. Social media amplifies reach.
Integrated strategies unify promotion. This holistic approach enhances sustainability.
By December 2025, these efforts yield measurable gains in revenue and viewership.
Prasar Bharati's transformation benefits citizens through reliable public media. BIND's comprehensive framework ensures enduring impact.
