Govt should not enter broadcasting: TRAI

The government - Centre or state - and its departments, state-run enterprises, their joint ventures and government funded companies should not enter into the business of broadcasting and distribution of television channels, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) said today.

According to recommendations by TRAI, the government must keep an arm's length distance from the state-owned public broadcaster Prasar Bharti. TRAI also that measures should be taken to ensure functional independence and autonomy of Prasar Bharti, the countries largest broadcaster.

TRAI today released the recommendations on "Issues related to entry of certain entities in to the business of broadcasting and/or distribution of TV channels" as sought by the ministry of information and broadcasting on November 30.

TRAI said that in case some government bodies have already been allowed to enter this business, the Central government should provide them an appropriate exit route.