Permission given to over 800 TV channels: Govt

New Delhi, April 24: The Information and Broadcasting ministry said that so far it has permitted 832 TV channels to operate in the country, out of which 406 channels are under news and current affairs category.

Remaining 426 channels are under non news category, Minister of State in the I&B ministry Rajyavardhan Rathore said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Replying to another question Rathore said that Prasar Bharati had informed that in All India Radio (AIR), as against the sanctioned strength of 26,418 fixed over 20 years ago, 11,758 posts are filled up at present.

"However due to rapid technology upgradation in the broadcasting sector, improved connectivity and various special services available, manpower audit is required. Radio stations are being run by redeployment of staff and by engaging personnel on contractual basis," he added.

The minister also said that after rigorous exercise, the Government had identified 3452 posts as essential category posts for filling up in Prasar Bharati which will serve the needs of AIR also.

He also said that Prasar Bharati has informed that Staff Selection Commission has already recommended 2367 candidates for appointment and Prasar Bharati is in the process of issuing appointment orders.

In addition, 38 middle or senior level programme posts have been revived for filling up on deputation basis, Rathore said.

Rathore in a written reply said that the Press Council of India has informed that the defamation complaints in print media received by them during the last three financial years indicates there is a decrease in number of complaints received in the last financial year in comparison to the earlier two financial years.

PTI