Naidu stresses on transparency in I&B ministry’s functioning

During the meeting, Naidu categorically stressesd on transparency and accountability in the ministry’s functioning.

The Ministry has successfully and transparently completed E-auction of first batch of private FM radio channels Phase-III comprising 135 channels in 69 existing cities of Phase-II in the early of this month. Even the private FM Radio has been permitted to broadcast All India Radio News for listeners to get credible information apart from entertainment at no cost. 

The Ministry will also consider the possibility of publishing Employment News in regional languages. “The Publications Division would consider bringing out books regarding the contribution of large number of heroes of our struggle from different regions who were not given the recognition that they so rightly deserved,” Naidu added.

Naidu also apprised the members of the three member committee constituted by the ministry to address the issues related to Content Regulation in Government Advertising. “Ministry of I&B has played a critical role in the communication and outreach activities for the Government Flagship schemes & initiatives likes Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Make in India, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, etc. through 360 degree Multimedia campaigns,” Naidu mentioned.

To enhance the visibility of the rich collection of Divisions publications, the minister referred the Publications Division to approach its stakeholders as part of corporate social responsibility to sponsor books for schools and libraries across the country to make these books available for the younger generation in far-flung and remote villages.

To harness the India’s soft power in film sector, the Ministry has also set up a Film Facilitation Office to promote film shootings by foreign film makers in India. The “Most Film Friendly State” will be a special category award in National Film Awards this year. 

A presentation was made by the Joint Secretary on behalf of the Ministry giving an overview of the steps and initiatives. Members of the committee were specially apprised of the digitization and e-initiatives of the Publications Division including the e-version of 100 volumes of Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi during the meeting.