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Tag: Ashwini Vaishnaw

  • Prime minister Modi chairs celeb laden Waves advisory panel meeting

    Prime minister Modi chairs celeb laden Waves advisory panel meeting

    MUMBAI: It’s happening. It’s not. It’s postponed. It’s not. With all the confusion going around prime minister Narendra Modi’s  pet project to promote India as a cultural and entertainment capital, Waves, he has decided to take the bull by the horns by himself.

    He had a meeting with the Waves advisory board on 7 February with minister Ashwni Vaishnaw in attendance. The meeting was conducted under the umbrella of Meity. Among those included in the video call figured: Amitabh Bachchan, Aamir Khan, Anupam Kher, Ted Sarandos, Anil Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, Shekar Kapur, Anand Mahindra, Hema Malini, Chiranjeevi, Mithun Chakravarty, Ekta Kapoor and many other celebrities.

    Let’s hope, some consensus was arrived at this time to avoid the embarrassments that two date changes have brought to Waves, to the ministry of information and broadcasting and to the country as a whole. . 
     

  • India launches major initiatives for Waves Summit 2025

    India launches major initiatives for Waves Summit 2025

    MUMBAI: The ministry of information and broadcasting marked a significant milestone today with the launch of key initiatives for the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (Waves) at the National Media Centre. Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat led the event, which highlighted India’s ambition to become a global hub for the creative economy.

    The Waves Summit, envisioned as India’s answer to the Davos Economic Forum, aims to showcase the nation’s rich cultural and creative landscape, often referred to as the ‘Orange Economy.’

    Key Initiatives Launched:

    * Waves  Bazaar: A global e-marketplace connecting India’s creative talent with international markets, supporting B2B interactions across sectors like film, TV, music, animation, esports, and gaming.
    * Create in India Challenges: Three new challenges launched:

    o Wah Ustad! – A platform for young classical vocalists, culminating in a grand finale at Waves 2025.

    o Make the World Wear Khadi – A creative campaign to position Khadi as a global brand.

    o Resonate: The EDM Challenge – Inviting global talent to showcase expertise in electronic dance music.

    * Waves Awards: Nominations open on 15 February 2025, celebrating achievements across categories like Game of the Year, Film of the Year, and Advertising Campaign of the Year.

    A new challenge was also announced to encourage filmmakers to explore India’s cultural heritage and tourism, promoting the country’s vibrant traditions to national and international audiences.

    Union Minister of Information &  Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said: “Waves will position India as the global capital of the creator economy, celebrating our cultural strength and innovation.”

    Union Minister of Culture and Tourism  Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, added: “Our cultural heritage is not just a testament to our past but the backbone of our future on the global stage.”

    Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur described India as a “powerhouse of cultural and digital content”, emphasising Waves  as a critical platform to demonstrate India’s creative leadership globally.

    The summit, scheduled for 2025, aims to converge audio, video, and entertainment industries, offering creators a platform to collaborate, network, and showcase their talents to a global audience.

    Says a disgruntled media observer: “Twice, they have postponed it  – twice. Waves is a good initiative but the management of its rollout is something that the government needs to get in order and not just leave it to sarkari types who pay obeisance to their superiors. The prime minister may be behind it, but he is not going to execute it on the ground. IFFI has taken decades to reach the quality it has reached now. The MIB will have to put a lot of checks and balances in place to make Waves work. They can’t continue living in their echo chambers where everything they are doing is good. Shekhar Kapur as a face is history. The doubting Thomases are wondering whether it will be postponed again.” 

  • FTII gets new auditorium; I&B minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates it

    FTII gets new auditorium; I&B minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates it

    MUMBAI:  At last some attention is being paid to the venerable Film & Television Institute of India. A new auditorium  in its complex was ribbon cut by I&B, railways, and electronics and information technology minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on 11 January.

    This marked Vaishnaw’s first visit to the esteemed institution, which operates under the ministry of information and broadcasting. The minister was joined by students as he cut the ribbon and lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter for FTII.

    In an open forum with students and faculty following the inauguration, Vaishnaw articulated his vision for FTII’s future, aiming to elevate the institute on the global stage.

    “Our legacy and heritage provide a firm foundation to embark on the journey of further excellence,” he stated, emphasising the importance of advancing the institution’s educational offerings.

    The minister addressed various questions from faculty and students, particularly regarding the proposed deemed university status for FTII. He also shared his vision for cinema education in India, focusing on strengthening career prospects for students and fostering greater industry linkages.

    Citing the success of Gati Shakti Vishvavidyalaya, which has rapidly become a key talent provider for global players, Vaishnaw underlined the importance of such industry partnerships.

    The newly inaugurated auditorium, with a seating capacity of 586, is equipped with state-of-the-art features, including a cinema projector, a PA system for stage performances, and a cutting-edge Dolby Atmos surround sound system.

    One of its most innovative features is a horizontally movable screen, measuring 50 feet in width and 20 feet in height. This screen can be easily adjusted with a remote control, transforming the auditorium into a full-fledged cinema theatre. This pioneering feature, which sets a new standard for flexibility in auditorium design, is believed to be the first of its kind, and FTII has already filed for a patent for the technology.

    During his visit, Vaishnaw also toured various facilities at the institute and interacted with faculty members.

    Reflecting on the creative economy, he remarked, “With the talent and ecosystem of FTII, we can become a bigger player in the global entertainment industry.”

  • Parliamentary panel to review OTT content amidst regulatory debate

    Parliamentary panel to review OTT content amidst regulatory debate

    MUMBAI: Imagine this: you’re unwinding with your favorite show, only to frantically fumble for the remote as a scene unfolds that you’d rather your child never see—graphic violence, explicit language, or worse, nudity. Frustrated by the glamorisation of crime and violence in thrillers that could inspire the impressionable? It’s a moment every parent dreads, and a dilemma households across the country face in today’s era of on-demand entertainment.

    But here’s the big news: relief might finally be on the way.

    In a move poised to reshape how we consume digital content, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology is stepping in. Mark your calendars for 20 December, when the committee will meet with leading industry bodies to tackle the hot-button issue of content regulation on OTT platforms. As debates intensify between calls for stricter government oversight and advocates of self-regulation under the IT Rules, 2021, the stage is set for what could be a landmark decision in the OTT landscape.

    This is a moment of mixed emotions—hope for a more family-friendly streaming experience, but also trepidation over potential restrictions that might stifle creativity. One thing is certain: change is brewing, and all eyes are now on the committee’s crucial meeting.

    The committee, chaired by Lok Sabha member Nishikant Dubey, has invited organisations such as the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association and the Motion Picture Association of America (India office) to present their views. This dialogue follows Information and Broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw’s request to prioritise strengthening laws governing social media and OTT platforms.

    Dubey emphasised the urgency of addressing content concerns, particularly regarding portrayals of women, obscenity, and vulgarity. “OTT platforms often feature content unsuitable for family viewing. Our meeting with industry stakeholders will address these pressing issues,” he said.

    Last month, Vaishnaw highlighted cultural disparities between India and foreign regions housing platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. He stressed the need for stricter regulations, citing examples such as Netflix’s portrayal of the 1999 Indian Airlines hijacking in IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack. The series faced criticism for inaccuracies, prompting Netflix to update its disclaimers.

    Industry bodies such as the Indian Digital Media Industry Foundation (IDMIF) and the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) have pushed for retaining the current self-regulatory framework. Both organisations argue that platform-level self-regulation under IT Rules ensures creative freedom while adhering to constitutional boundaries.

    In August, IDMIF and IAMAI assured MIB that their members comply with the code of ethics, avoiding content harmful to India’s sovereignty, security, and public order. They also highlighted caution in portraying racial or religious groups.

    As the government explores options like pre-certification for OTT content, industry bodies have urged against additional oversight. They advocate for maintaining the balance between creative expression and compliance.

    The 20 December meeting is poised to shape the future regulatory framework for OTT platforms in India, balancing creative freedom, cultural sensitivities, and legal accountability.

  • NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 to celebrate trailblazers shaping modern India

    NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 to celebrate trailblazers shaping modern India

    MUMBAI: NDTV Indian of the Year returns with its much-anticipated 2024 edition, celebrating exceptional Indians whose remarkable contributions have left a lasting impact on the nation and beyond. With its legacy as the pioneer of the Indian of the Year platform, NDTV continues to spotlight extraordinary achievers across diverse domains such as politics, business, sports, entertainment, and more. The theme for this year, ‘Celebrating India – Inspiring Excellence’, encapsulates the spirit of innovation and achievement propelling the country forward.

    The prestigious event, set to take place on 6 December 2024 in New Delhi, will feature a stellar line-up of luminaries and leaders across various fields, highlighting the immense talent and achievements that define modern India. Attendees will include prominent personalities like External Affairs minister S. Jaishankar, I&B minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Commerce and Industry minister Piyush Goyal, business stalwarts such as Gautam Hari Singhania and Roshni Nadar Malhotra, actors Rajkummar Rao and Ananya Panday, and the multi-talented entertainer Kapil Sharma, among others.

    Past editions of the NDTV Indian of the Year have celebrated icons who have shaped India’s narrative, including cultural legends like Amitabh Bachchan and Shahrukh Khan, cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar, India’s G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, Chandrayaan-3 visionaries, and tech luminary Satya Nadella. This year’s event promises to continue the tradition by recognising individuals who embody innovation, resilience, and excellence.

    The 2024 edition boasts a distinguished jury featuring RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, chairman, Sanjiv Goenka, veteran actor Asha Parekh, advertising guru Piyush Pandey, former supreme court judge A.K. Sikri, former Sebi chairman U.K. Sinha, and former chief of the Naval Staff, Karambir Singh. Supporting the jury’s deliberations, Grant Thornton serves as the trusted Consulting Partner.

    The event will be aired live across the NDTV network on 6 December, showcasing the achievements of India’s finest talents and honouring their contributions to shaping the nation’s future.

    NDTV Indian of the Year 2024 stands as a grand celebration of excellence and the indomitable spirit of India, bringing together visionaries, innovators, and changemakers under one roof.
     

  • Australia passes bill banning social media for kids; India’s Vaishnaw calls for stricter regulation

    Australia passes bill banning social media for kids; India’s Vaishnaw calls for stricter regulation

    MUMBAI: No social media for kids. The Aussie house of representatives passed a bill yesterday imposing a ban against Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, SnapChat, X,  Reddit from allowing kids under 16 from accessing these networking platforms. The onus has been put on social media to ensure that kids don’t use them;  fines up to $33 million will be imposed on them if a kid’s profile is found active. The bill will now require senate approval which it most likely will get and social media  will have  a year to clean up their acts. 

    That was Down Under. 

    In India too, the government would like to bring  social media under tight regulation. 

    While addressing a parliament question during the ongoing session of the Lok Sabha today, union minister of information & broadcasting, railways, and electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw,  once again highlighted the urgent need to strengthen existing laws governing social media and OTT platforms.

    “We are living in the era of social media and OTT platforms. However, the democratic institutions and traditional forms of the press that once relied on editorial checks to ensure accountability and correctness of content, have seen these checks diminish over time,” he said. 

    He noted that due to the absence of such editorial oversight, social media has become a platform for freedom of press on one hand, but on the other hand, it has also become a space for uncontrolled expression, which often includes vulgar content. 

    Acknowledging the distinct cultural differences between India and the geographies where these platforms originated, Vaishnaw emphasised. “The cultural sensitivities of India vastly differ from those of the regions where these platforms were created,” he said.  

    This makes it imperative for India to make existing laws more stricter and he urged everyone to come to a consensus on this matter.

    The minister also urged the parliamentary standing committee to take up this important matter issue as a priority. “There should be societal consensus on it, along with stricter laws to address this challenge” he said.

    Will Indian society agree? 

  • Avtr Meta Labs collaborates with Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

    Avtr Meta Labs collaborates with Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

    Mumbai– Avtr Meta Labs has announced its partnership with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) for the introduction of India’s First AI Avatar Creator Contest. This unique contest will be a key feature of the upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, scheduled to take place from February 5th to 9th, 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

    Avtr Meta Labs co-founder & CEO Abhishek Razdan said, ” “We are incredibly excited to launch India’s First AI Avatar Creator Contest in association with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, a unique initiative that blends the power of artificial intelligence with creative expression. This contest not only showcases the potential of AI in digital artistry but also provides a platform for creators, innovators, and tech enthusiasts to explore new horizons. At Avtr Meta Labs, we believe in the transformative power of AI, and we’re thrilled to see how participants will push the boundaries of technology and imagination.”

    WAVES, a globally recognized platform for the Media and Entertainment (M&E) industry, highlights India’s position as a rising hub for innovative content creation and storytelling. The 2025 edition of WAVES will bring together industry leaders, stakeholders, and creators from across the world to explore the future of the media industry, focusing on creativity, technology, and collaboration.

    As part of this grand summit, the Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has officially launched the “Create in India Challenge – Season 1”, a series of 25 distinctive contests across multiple domains. Among them is the highly anticipated AI Avatar Creator Contest, which offers creators, technologists, and marketers the opportunity to showcase their skills in developing AI-driven virtual avatars.

  • Creators’ economy, a wonderful tool to showcase our rich cultural heritage and way of life: Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Creators’ economy, a wonderful tool to showcase our rich cultural heritage and way of life: Ashwini Vaishnaw

    Mumbai: Union minister of Information and Broadcasting (I&B), Ashwini Vaishnaw has launched 25 challenges as part of the ‘Create in India Challenge – Season 1’ for World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES). Speaking at the launch, Vaishnaw said that todays’ launch is a reflection of our growing and evolving economy. A totally new creators economy has been created and the same is also recognised by the prime minister of India as reflected in the first-ever National Creators Award presented by him in March 2024.

    Growing creators economy: Opportunities, infrastructure, and job creation

    While highlighting the immense potential in this economy, the union minister mentioned that the creators’ economy has become a wonderful tool to showcase our rich cultural heritage, way of life, yoga, traditional medicine system, and diversity in our cuisines. The Government of India is leaving no stone unturned to encourage this economy and therefore, we need to ensure the talent & skill development and availability of necessary infrastructure in this sector.

     

     

    To further develop this creators’ economy, the government is focused on creating world-class talent development programs and infrastructure. There are plans to establish world-class universities and facilities that will enhance the capabilities of creators in media and entertainment, he added.

    Harnessing new technologies in filmmaking: Job creation

    Emphasising that filmmaking is one of our strengths, Vaishnaw mentioned that in today’s era there is a great scope of using new technology and tools in this sector thereby ensuring a good scope for employment generation. It is estimated that if successfully executed, the program can generate 2-3 lakh jobs in the sector.

    Social Responsibility

    At the same time, the union minister also reminded that citizens have to ensure that the society is not harmed in this journey and the responsibility lies not just with the government but also with society, industry and all of us.

    To capitalise on the immense potential in this sector, WAVES is being organised and is set to emerge as a big phenomenon in future, he added.

    Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Sanjay Jaju, additional secretary, ministry of I&B, Neerja Shekhar, director general, FICCI, Jyoti Vij, vice chairman, CII National Committee on Media & Entertainment, Biren Ghose were also among the dignitaries who attended the event.

    ‘Design in India, Design for the World’

    While speaking at the occasion Sh. Sanjay Jaju mentioned that this initiative is a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to nurture and elevate India’s creative ecosystem. “It aligns seamlessly with our Prime Minister’s visionary call of ‘Design in India, Design for the World’ as articulated during his 78th Independence Day address.”, he added. Highlighting the immense potential and talent within our nation, he said that WAVES stands as a testament to this potential and will serve as a global platform where the brightest minds, most talented creators, and visionary leaders from around the world will converge to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and push the boundaries of creativity.

    ‘Create in India Challenge – Season 1’

    These challenges, hosted by leading industry associations and organisations, cover a wide range of disciplines including animation, filmmaking, gaming, music, and visual arts. These challenges are being done in the run up to the main event.

    List of ‘Create in India’ Challenges – Season 1

    1. Anime Challenge by Media and Entertainment Association of India 
    2. Animation Filmmakers Competition by Dancing Atoms 
    3. Game Jam by India Game Developer Conference 
    4. Esports Tournament by Esports Federation of India 
    5. City Quest: Shades of Bharat by E-gaming Federation 
    6. Handheld Educational Video Game Development by Indian Digital Gaming Society 
    7. Comics Creator Championship by Indian Comics Association 
    8. Young Filmmakers Challenge by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and Whistling Woods International 
    9. XR Creator Hackathon by Wavelaps and XDG 
    10. AI Film Making Competition by InVideo 
    11. WAVES Promo Video Challenge Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation 
    12. TruthTell Hackathon by India Cellular & Electronics Association 
    13. Community Radio Content Challenge by Community Radio Association 
    14. Theme Music Competition by Indian Music Industry 
    15. WAVES Hackathon: Adspend Optimizer by Advertising Agencies Association of India 
    16. WAVES AI Art Installation Challenge by Internet and Mobile Association of India 
    17. WAVES Explorer by Internet and Mobile Association of India 
    18. Reel Making Challenge by Internet and Mobile Association of India 
    19. Film Poster Making Competition National Film Archive of India – National Film Development Corporation 
    20. Virtual Influencer Creation Contest by AVTR meta labs 
    21. Battle of the Bands by Prasar Bharati 
    22. Symphony of India by Prasar Bharati 
    23. India: A Bird’s Eye View by Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited 
    24. Anti-Piracy Challenge by Confederation of Indian Industry 
    25. Trailer Making Competition by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry

  • MIB halts release of revised broadcasting services bill

    MIB halts release of revised broadcasting services bill

    Mumbai: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has decided not to release a new draft of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill at this time. According to recent media reports, official sources from the MIB have indicated that there is no immediate need for this legislation and it has been put on hold.

    The Ministry had initially planned to issue a revised draft following varied feedback on the existing proposal, especially concerning the regulation of online content creators through licensing or registration. To address these concerns, MIB extended the feedback deadline to 15 October 2024 and intended to publish a new draft afterward. However, various media reports state that the government is now shifting its focus towards the Digital India Act to address these regulatory issues instead of pursuing further revisions of the Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill.

    Since taking office in June, I&B minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has voiced reservations about the bill and has reportedly criticised the drafting process, according to sources. In fact, Vaishnaw had recently told The Hindu: “We are very open minded, very flexible and want to make sure that whatever we do, we do after taking all the diverse views into consideration.” 

    The bill would have required OTT broadcasting service operators and digital news broadcasters to notify the government of their operations, including subscriber and viewer numbers, within one month of the act’s publication. Social media intermediaries would also have needed to ensure compliance with all act requirements. It was intended to replace key provisions of the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act of 1995.

  • Times Now claims leadership during union budget week

    Times Now claims leadership during union budget week

    Mumbai: Times Now is claiming supremacy in the English news channel category during budget week with a 34.3 per cent viewership share (Source: BARC| 10L+| NCCS AB 22+| Wk.30 2024) and an impressive 12,48,000 reach (Source: BARC| 10L+| NCCS AB 22+| Wk.30 2024).

    A press release issued by it states that its budget coverage “stood out for its extensive and comprehensive programming, featuring detailed infographics highlighting key economic indicators, sector-wise expectations, and significant announcements.”

    The channel has also stated that it was  “No 1 on budget day, dominating the genre with a 33.7 per cent viewership share (Source: BARC| 10L+| NCCS AB 22+| 23 July 2024).”

    Times Now has further claimed that it became the preferred choice amongst viewers for budget-related news thanks to its seasoned journalists and strategic content. During finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s speech, it said that it registered a 34 per cent viewership share, “the highest in the genre” (Source: BARC| 10L+| NCCS AB 22+| 23 July 2024, 11 AM – 12 Noon),  Real-time graphical analysis of the speech kept viewers informed on the budget’s implications, making this the most crucial hour of the day with a reach of 44,000 (Source: BARC| 10L+| NCCS AB 22+| 23 July 2024, 11 AM – 12 Noon).

    Times Now’s union budget programming featured examinations of the Indian economy and its challenges during pre-budget discussions. Key panel discussions offered crucial insights into the budget, with tax experts Rohinton Sidhwa and Saloni Roy decoding its significance for various sectors, industries, and the middle class.

    Former chief economic advisor KV Subramanian provided perspectives on expected reforms, while representatives from industry bodies like CII outlined their demands from the government.

    Prominent government personalities, including union minister of commerce and industry Piyush Goyal, minister of petroleum and natural gas Hardeep Singh Puri and minister of railways and information & broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with top departmental secretaries and opposition voices, shared exclusive insights on the budget.