Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
The Prasar Bharati (Broadcasting Corporation of India) Act, 1990, is a landmark legislation that established Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster. It defines the corporation’s structure, functions, and powers, aiming to ensure that broadcasting serves the public interest by providing information, education, and entertainment. The Act seeks to promote a balanced development of broadcasting on radio and television.
1: Act Background and ministry under which this act is:
The Prasar Bharati (Broadcasting Corporation of India) Act, 1990, was enacted to provide for the establishment of a Broadcasting Corporation for India, known as Prasar Bharati. It defines the corporation’s composition, functions, and powers, and provides for matters connected therewith. This act falls under the purview of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
2: Enactment date, number of chapters, number of sections:
The Act was enacted on 12th September 1990. It is divided into four chapters and has 35 sections.
3: Act Governed By:
The Act is primarily governed by the Prasar Bharati Board, which oversees the corporation’s operations. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting also plays a crucial role in overseeing the implementation of the Act. The Broadcasting Council, established under the Act, handles complaints and advises the corporation.
4: On Whom it is applicable:
This Act applies to Prasar Bharati, its board, officers, employees, and all entities involved in public broadcasting services in India. It also applies to the broadcasting of External Services and monitoring of broadcasts from outside India. The Act aims to ensure that broadcasting is conducted as a public service.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The Act does not prescribe specific penalties in the traditional sense. However, it empowers the Central Government to take action against the Prasar Bharati Board for non-compliance with directions or failure to provide information. This can include superseding the Board for a specified period. The Act also provides for the removal of the Chairman and other members under certain conditions.
6: Important Pointers:
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The Act establishes Prasar Bharati as India’s public service broadcaster.
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It defines the composition and powers of the Prasar Bharati Board.
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It outlines the functions of the corporation, focusing on information, education, and entertainment.
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The Act establishes a Broadcasting Council to handle complaints and advise the corporation.
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It empowers the Central Government to issue directions to the corporation and take action for non-compliance.
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The Act emphasizes the importance of balanced broadcasting on radio and television.
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It also includes provisions for the management of assets, finances, and accounts of the corporation.
7: Act Copy: