Why in News?

• Prasar Bharati launched its OTT platform WAVES to meet the rising demand for digital streaming services in India.

Key Features of WAVES

1.   Content Offerings:

o    Live TV, video on demand, radio streaming, games, and e-commerce via the ONDC network.

o    Access to 65 live channels, covering infotainment, news, and culture.

2.   Accessibility:

o    Free to download with most content available at no cost.

o    Premium features accessible through subscription plans.

OTT Regulation in India

1.   Definition:

o    OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms deliver content via the internet, bypassing traditional broadcast methods.

2.   Regulatory Framework:

o    Governed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

o    Compliance enforced through the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

Significance

• Promotes inclusive digital access to quality content.
• Strengthens public broadcasting in the OTT space.
• Aligns with India’s Digital India initiative and boosts indigenous content streaming platforms.

Q1.

What type of content is offered by the WAVES OTT platform of Prasar Bharati?

1.   Live TV

2.   Radio streaming

3.   Video on demand

4.   E-commerce via the ONDC network

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 2 and 4 only

Answer: (c)

Q2.

WAVES OTT platform launched by Prasar Bharati primarily aims to:
(a) Offer only subscription-based content to Indian audiences.
(b) Provide free access to most content while offering premium features through subscriptions.
(c) Deliver content exclusively in regional languages.
(d) Stream only infotainment and news content.

Answer: (b)

Q3.

Which ministry regulates OTT platforms in India?
(a) Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
(b) Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
(c) Ministry of Communications
(d) Ministry of Consumer Affairs

Answer: (b)

Q4.

The regulatory framework governing OTT platforms in India is outlined in:
(a) The Cinematograph Act, 1952
(b) The IT Act, 2000
(c) The Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021
(d) The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995

Answer: (c)

Q5.

What distinguishes OTT platforms like WAVES from traditional broadcasting methods?
(a) They require satellite signals for streaming.
(b) They deliver content via the internet, bypassing traditional broadcast methods.
(c) They operate under direct government control without subscriptions.
(d) They exclusively stream content in rural areas.

Answer: (b)