The government has decided to take the propaganda war against neighbouring countries to a higher level.
The UPA government has proposed a massive 10-fold increase in the amount of budget spent on strengthening of Doordarshan and All-India Radio broadcasting and coverage in border areas.
The Union information and broadcasting ministry has proposed to spend Rs 986 crores on strengthening of national broadcasters in border areas during the forthcoming 12th plan period. The amount spent in the corresponding period during 11th Plan was Rs 100 crores.
Government sources stated that out of the total amount Rs 586 crores has been earmarked for the expansion of Doordarshan, an amount of Rs 400 crores has been proposed for All-India Radio. This is the highest ever amount being proposed by the government to strengthen facilities of national broadcasters over the past few decades.
Sources stated that the move is expected to enhance India’s capability in countering propaganda against the emanating from foreign soil. It is understood that the step was initiated after Union I&B minister Ambika Soni directed the strengthening of infrastructure and capabilities of national broadcasters in bordering areas of the country.
The bordering areas being chosen for strengthening of coverage are those along Pakistan, China, Nepal and Bangladesh. In all, Doordarshan will set up 10 new high-power transmitters, upgradation and setting up of 25 low-power transmitters in these areas. While AIR is expected to set up 72 FM transmitters in bordering areas and utilise the funds for upgradation of existing facilities.
The government believes that a strategic plan for the communication needs of border areas was urgently needed and that an integrated campaign regarding peculiar issues being faced by the region should be taken up on a priority basis.