Govt Pushes Digital Radio, D2M Broadcasting Tech to Transform India’s Communication Ecosystem

In a written reply, the Minister outlined a multi-pronged strategy that combines technological innovation, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure upgrades to modernise India’s communication ecosystem.

The Government of India is accelerating the adoption of next-generation broadcasting technologies such as Digital Radio and Direct-to-Mobile (D2M), while simultaneously strengthening mechanisms to curb spam calls and unsolicited commercial communication (UCC), Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr L. Murugan informed the Lok Sabha.

In a written reply, the Minister outlined a multi-pronged strategy that combines technological innovation, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure upgrades to modernise India’s communication ecosystem.

Digital Radio and D2M: A New Era in Broadcasting

Digital radio and D2M technologies are poised to redefine mass communication by enabling efficient spectrum usage and wider content delivery.

• Digital Radio allows multiple channels to be broadcast over a single frequency, creating a cost-effective, free-to-air ecosystem

• Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology goes a step further by delivering video, audio, and data directly to mobile devices

Unlike conventional streaming, D2M operates via terrestrial broadcast infrastructure, meaning:

• No requirement of SIM cards or mobile data

• Reliable access even in low-connectivity or remote areas

• Ability to serve as a dedicated “data pipe” for mass communication

This makes D2M particularly valuable for:

• Affordable entertainment and education delivery

• Emergency alerts and disaster management communication

• Bridging the digital divide in rural and underserved regions

Tackling Spam Calls Through Blockchain-Based Regulation

Addressing the growing issue of spam calls and messages, the Minister highlighted the role of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and its Telecom Commercial Communications Customer Preference Regulations (TCCCPR).

A key innovation in this space is the deployment of a Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platform, based on blockchain principles.

Key features include:

• Consumer preference registration to control promotional communications

• Mandatory registration of businesses and telemarketers on the platform

• A robust complaint mechanism for reporting spam

• Seamless coordination among telecom service providers for enforcement

This system enhances transparency, traceability, and accountability, making it more difficult for unauthorized telemarketing activities to operate.

BIND Scheme Driving Infrastructure Modernisation

To support these technological advancements, the government is investing in broadcasting infrastructure through the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme, a Central Sector initiative.

Under this scheme:

• Doordarshan and Akashvani networks are being modernized and digitized

• Legacy systems are upgraded with state-of-the-art equipment

• New technologies are integrated to improve reach, quality, and efficiency

Prasar Bharati continues to play a central role in implementing these upgrades, ensuring that India’s public broadcasting network remains aligned with global technological trends.

Building a Future-Ready Communication Ecosystem

The combined push for D2M broadcasting, digital radio adoption, anti-spam regulation, and infrastructure modernization reflects the government’s broader vision of creating a:

• Resilient and inclusive communication network

• Technology-driven broadcasting ecosystem

• Secure and consumer-friendly telecom environment

These initiatives are expected to enhance information accessibility, public safety communication, and digital inclusion, particularly in remote and underserved areas.