Soon Indian government will be better prepared to counter the Pakistan sponsored mis-information campaign being spread in the insurgency-hit Jammu and Kashmir region. Union information and broadcasting ministry has decided to launch an ambitious Rs 100 crores scheme for establishing high-power television and radio
transmitters to counter Pakistani propaganda war in Jammu and Kashmir. Sources stated that under the scheme cleared on Thursday, the ministry has decided to establish high-powered transmitters for Doordarshan and All India Radio broadcasts in the terrorist-affected state. It is understood that Union I&B minister Ambika Soni was keen to enhance the strength of the national broadcasters in the state for raising awareness amongst the masses about government programmes and schemes.
“The scheme will entail an expenditure of Rs 100 crores and will establish 10 kw TV and FM transmitters,” sources added. This paper had first reported in July 2009 that such a plan was under consideration of the I&B ministry to strengthen the information dissemination system in the state.
The plan is to establish transmitters in all three geographical regions, Kashmir, Jammu and Leh, of the state. The locations where these high-powered transmitters are scheduled to come up are Natha Top in Jammu, Green Ridge in Srinagar and Himbotlingla Pass in Leh regions.
“These transmitters will help the government in countering the Pakistani propaganda war in the border lying areas of the country,” sources added. Currently, there are 125 Doordarshan transmitters, 16 FM stations, and 14 medium wave transmitters of the AIR operating in the insurgency-prone state.
Official sources stated that the need to enhance the country’s broadcasting capabilities in the bordering areas has been felt for long as people living in such areas in regularly receive anti-India feed on their television sets from across the border.
The plan will also aim at strengthening of DD Kashir, Doordarshan’s dedicated channel for the Valley. The I&B ministry has decided to improve the quality of programming content by training producers working for the channel to deal with sensitive subjects.