Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw has called for a transformation in radio broadcasting, urging Prasar Bharati to adopt a “Digital First” and “Hyper-Local” approach to remain relevant amid changing media consumption habits and technological advancements.
Speaking during the virtual inauguration of a 20 kW Akashvani FM transmitter in Ramgarh, Jaisalmer, Vaishnaw has said that public broadcasting must evolve its functioning and outlook to meet the demands of a rapidly digitising media landscape. He has directed officials to prepare a roadmap for this transition and has stressed the importance of integrating local artists and artisans into the broadcasting ecosystem.
The remarks have come as Prasar Bharati continues to expand its broadcast infrastructure across the country. The newly inaugurated FM transmitter has increased Rajasthan’s total FM transmitter count to 39 and has extended radio coverage across an 80-kilometre radius in the border region of Jaisalmer, covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres.
The expansion has improved access to information, educational programming and entertainment content for audiences in remote and border areas. The transmitter has also strengthened the reach of Akashvani and Doordarshan in frontier regions, supporting broader efforts to enhance communication infrastructure across India’s borders.
Vaishnaw has also highlighted the upcoming AI Data Centre in Jaipur, describing it as a step towards building future-ready technology infrastructure.
