MUMBAI: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has sought affidavits from both existing MSOs as well as fresh applicants that they are carrying all 24 DD channels, besides Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha TV channels, on their TV network.

The ministry has mentioned in the notice that in view of the contribution of Doordarshan towards dissemination of accurate information about policies and programmes of government, acceleration of socio-economic change, promotion of national integration and stimulation of scientific temper, it is mandated that all cable TV networks should carry DD channels.

The ministry has noticed that the mandate is not being followed by several cable operators in contravention of existing rules. The ministry has also asked to submit the affidavit within one month of the issue of notice.

Section 8 of The Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 states that cable operators will have to compulsorily include Doordarshan channels notified by the central government in the Official Gazette. The MIB also listed DD Arunprabha as a mandatory DD channel recently.