Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has launched a Facebook account

In a major initiative to enhance the understanding of critical issues associated with the digitalization process, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has  for the First time launched a Facebook account on the subject. The objective of this initiative is to not only to disseminate information regarding the issues involved, it would also facilitate a two way flow of information between the ministry and key stakeholders.

In this direction, the Ministry has launched a new and dedicated facebook account, namely, http://www.facebook.com/DigitalIndiaMIB” to facilitate exchange of information and clarifications on a wider canvass of public participation, covering a whole gamut of public concerns.

The facebook account carries answers to some of the frequently asked questions and provides links to other connected organizations.  The “Wall” on the facebook account provides interaction platform and shall be a source of useful information for the individuals as well as the stakeholders like the Multi-System Operators and Cable Operators.

A decision to digitalize the existing analogue cable television networks in India was taken recently. The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Amendment Act, 2011 has been enacted to bring about legal framework for implementation of Digital Addressable System in cable television networks. This is being implemented in a time- bound phased manner beginning with the 4 Metro cities which will go digital cable television way by 30th June, 2012. The rest of the country will follow suit in phases and the entire country will be digitalized by 31st December, 2014.

The digital switch-over of cable television is for the overall public good. It however, necessitates adequate public awareness about the new system and the changes to be made at the level of stakeholders including television viewers to be digital ready by the cut-off dates. With the digitalization of Cable TV system, the service providers will be able to carry large number of TV channels in their network, as compared to those presently carried by analog cable TV system. Besides, the digital cable TV network has enhanced capability to carry additional innovative services like triple play with broadband, value added service and interactive services. It has, therefore been decided to initiate a public awareness campaign for the purpose utilizing the platform of social media.

PIB