Role of Media & Social Networks (Internal Security).
Syllabus: UPSC Mains GS3: Internal security
On 14 August 2026 the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting decided to remove the 12-minute advertisement duration cap for television channels. The cap came in 2006 under the Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994. The Ministry said 900-plus channels, fully digital platforms and uncapped digital media now give enough competition.
UPSC angle: Prelims: Cable TV Networks Act/Rules.
14 Aug 2026
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting released the Television Rating Policy, 2026, replacing the 16 January 2014 guidelines. Net-worth criteria fall from Rs 20 crore to Rs 5 crore, metered homes rise from 50,000 to 80,000, and agencies face annual independent audits, cross-holding curbs and graded penalties.
UPSC angle: Prelims: TV ratings regulation.
24 Jul 2026
The creative economy is a job and soft-power play.
UPSC angle: Prelims: WAVES.
1 May 2025