In a written reply to the Lok Sabha today, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan detailed the government’s efforts to modernize mass communication while intensifying the crackdown on unsolicited commercial communication (UCC). To combat spam calls and messages, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has implemented a blockchain-based Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platform under the TCCCPR framework.

This system allows consumers to register specific communication preferences and requires all principal entities, such as banks and airlines, along with telemarketers, to be registered for transparency.

Furthermore, a streamlined complaint mechanism on the DLT platform now enables users to report both registered and unregistered telemarketers, facilitating faster action across service providers.

Parallel to these regulatory measures, the Ministry is promoting the adoption of Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) and digital radio technologies to revolutionize how information is disseminated. By optimizing spectrum use, D2M technology allows mobile handsets to receive video, audio, and data directly through terrestrial infrastructure, functioning independently of SIM cards or mobile data. This creates a robust data pipe capable of delivering affordable entertainment and education, as well as critical emergency alerts during disasters.

To support this transition, the government is utilizing the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) scheme to modernize Prasar Bharati, ensuring that Doordarshan and Akashvani networks are upgraded with the latest digital equipment and emerging broadcasting technologies.