Digital radio, the government said, complements this ecosystem by optimising spectrum use to deliver multiple channels over a single frequency while remaining free-to-air.

Digital radio and Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcasting can enable delivery of audio, video and data directly to mobile devices without relying on SIM cards or mobile data, the government told the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.

In a written reply, L Murugan said D2M technology uses terrestrial infrastructure to create a “data pipe” for distributing entertainment, education and emergency alerts, positioning it as a cost-effective mass communication tool.

Digital radio, the government said, complements this ecosystem by optimising spectrum use to deliver multiple channels over a single frequency while remaining free-to-air.

On spam calls and messages, the minister said regulation of unsolicited commercial communication falls under the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, which has implemented a distributed ledger technology (DLT) platform.

The blockchain-based system allows consumers to register their communication preferences, while requiring businesses and telemarketers to be registered on the platform. It also includes a complaint mechanism that enables coordination among telecom operators to take action against violations.

The response came to a query on the role of emerging technologies in broadcasting and telecom, including their potential for mass communication and curbing spam.