Mass Communication System

Radio broadcasting in India began in 1923, started by the Radio Club of Bombay. From that point, it grew rapidly in popularity and brought about significant changes in the socio-cultural life of people. Within a short span, radio found a place in nearly every household across the country.

Recognising its reach, the government brought this popular medium under its control in 1930, naming it the Indian Broadcasting System. In 1936, it was renamed All India Radio, and finally in 1957, it became Akashwani. All India Radio broadcasts a wide variety of programmes covering information, education, and entertainment. Special news bulletins are also aired during important occasions such as sessions of parliament and state legislatures.

Television broadcasting emerged as the most effective audio-visual medium for spreading information and educating the masses. It began in India in 1959, but its services were initially limited only to the National Capital. After 1972, several other centres became operational. In 1976, television was separated from All India Radio and given its own identity as Doordarshan (DD). Once INSAT-IA (National Television-DD1) became operational, Common National Programmes (CNP) were started for the entire network, and services were extended to backward and remote rural areas.

Satellites serve as a mode of communication themselves, and they also regulate the use of other means of communication. The ability to get a continuous and synoptic view of a large area has made satellite communication vital for India, for both economic and strategic reasons. Satellite images are used for weather forecasting, monitoring natural calamities, and surveillance of border areas, among other purposes.

Based on configuration and purpose, India's satellite system is grouped into two categories:

• Indian National Satellite System (INSAT): Established in 1983, this is a multi-purpose satellite system used for telecommunication, meteorological observation, and various other data and programmes. …