Private channels to have 30-min slot for 'public interest' programmes

Part of new uplinking-downlinking rules prescribed by I&B ministry

For the first time ever, private television (TV) channels available in India have been mandated to run 30-minute daily programmes of national importance and social relevance as part of their new service obligation. The guideline has been stipulated in the new uplinking-downlinking rules prescribed by the information & broadcasting (I&B) ministry on Wednesday.

The guidelines, which have come after a gap of 11 years, while aiming to ease issues regarding permissions to companies for uplinking and downlinking of TV channels, has stumped broadcasters pertaining to the new service obligation.

The obligation is expected to cut into the commercial programming time