Centre plans to safeguard traditional media amid digital disruption: Minister, Pg11

Key Highlights:

• The Centre is planning initiatives to protect traditional media from digital disruption.
• Reforms in radio, television, and direct-to-home sectors are under consideration to foster growth.
• Guidelines for Television Rating Points (TRP) agencies are being formulated to address distortions.
• Government advertisement rates may be rationalized to level the playing field for conventional media.
• PIB is intensifying outreach with backgrounders and research on government policies.
• Integration of the Registrar of Newspapers for India, PIB, and Central Bureau of Communication is underway.
• Focus on strengthening the “creator economy” through initiatives like WAVES Bazaar and the Indian Institute of Creative Technology.

Detailed Insights:

• The government recognizes the need to safeguard traditional media due to the increasing influence of digital platforms.
• Reforms aim to create a more conducive environment for the growth of radio, television, and DTH sectors.
• Addressing distortions in TRP ratings is a priority, with public consultations already underway.
• Rationalizing government advertisement rates seeks to provide equitable opportunities for print and conventional media.
• PIB's enhanced outreach aims to improve public awareness of government policies and achievements.
• Integrating media organizations will streamline coordination and regulatory functions.
• Efforts are being made to combat fake news through a PIB Fact Check Unit chatbot and video verification software.
• The focus on the creator economy includes initiatives to promote global engagement and industry-oriented training.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Traditional Media: Established forms of mass communication before digital media, including print, radio, and television.
• Digital Disruption: The transformative effect of digital technologies on traditional industries and business models.
• Creator Economy: An economic system where individuals earn income from their skills, knowledge, or content creation.