MIB targets 81% AIR coverage under Rs 2,539 crore BIND push, expands broadcast footprint

India’s public broadcasting network is set for a significant expansion in reach, with Akashvani expected to cover 81% of the population, up from 70% in 2021, a shift that signals a renewed push to strengthen terrestrial broadcasting alongside the government’s digital ambitions.  

The expansion is being driven under the Rs 2,539.61 crore Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) scheme, which aims to modernise and upgrade infrastructure of Prasar Bharati, including both Akashvani and Doordarshan.  

According to a Lok Sabha reply by Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L. Murugan, 68 transmitters have been sanctioned under the scheme, which will expand All India Radio’s coverage footprint from 70% to 81% upon completion.

The increase, while incremental on paper, is significant in a sector where expanding last-mile connectivity particularly in remote and underserved regions requires substantial capital and infrastructure deployment.

The rollout includes digital terrestrial broadcasting on the medium wave band across metro cities such as Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai, indicating a hybrid strategy that combines legacy broadcast infrastructure with modern transmission technologies.

Murugan stated that even as terrestrial coverage expands, Akashvani is simultaneously pushing global accessibility. All 260 of its radio channels are now available for live streaming through the NewsOnAir app, allowing worldwide access to Indian radio content.  

This dual approach deepening domestic penetration while removing geographic barriers internationally marks a strategic shift in how public broadcasting is being positioned. 

Digital-first strategy extends beyond OTT

While Waves OTT has emerged as a key digital pillar, the government’s response indicates a broader ecosystem in development.

The platform hosts a wide repository of digitised archival content spanning Doordarshan, Akashvani and the National Film Archive of India, including legacy television programming, films, documentaries, and cultural performances. It has crossed 1.2 crore downloads and built a user base of around 85 lakh registered users globally. 

Additionally, Akashvani has set up a dedicated podcasting unit, with its flagship “Akashvani Podcast” targeting on-demand consumption and younger audiences suggesting a shift toward multi-format content delivery.  

Regulatory backing strengthens distribution

Murugan also stated that the expansion of reach is also being complemented by regulatory enforcement. The government confirmed that all sporting events designated as being of national importance were shared with Prasar Bharati during 2025–26 under the Sports Broadcasting Signals (Mandatory Sharing with Prasar Bharati) Act, 2007.

This ensured wider availability of live sports content across Doordarshan channels, reinforcing the role of public broadcasting in delivering mass-access programming.