The information & broadcasting ministry has asked all television broadcasters, DTH and cable operators to ensure uninterrupted supply of services to their customers when majority of the people are confined at homes due to the nationwide lockdown.
In a letter to all broadcasters, DTH providers, multi-system operators (MSOs) and local cable operators (LCOs), the ministry asked them to cooperate with each professional in the distribution chain so that people continue getting authentic information during the ‘difficult times’ that have arisen due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The letter stated that constant flow of essential and authentic information through various media is to ensure public order and safety in the current situation of an unprecedented pandemic.
“All steps may, therefore, be taken to ensure that the people continue to uninterruptedly view the available channels,” the ministry said.
“It will be appreciated by all concerned stakeholders that at this critical juncture, this steady flow of information and keeping the public engaged inside their homes with programmes on news, authentic information and entertainment is of paramount importance,” it added.
Many of the television channels have now started telecasting old television shows as most of the new shows on television had to be halted due to incomplete shooting amid the nationwide lockdown.
With shows like ‘Ramayan’, ‘Mahabharat‘, ‘Shaktimaa’ etc., already creating ripples in Doordarshan, several private channels have also decided to bring back its old classics.
The latest to join the bandwagon is ‘Office Office’ and ‘Hum Paanch’.