NEW DELHI: The Information and Broadcasting Ministry, which had asked prospective broadcasters to deal directly with the Ministry, has now decided to hold Open House Meetings. The meeting which will be held twice a month will give more opportunity for access to information with respect to processing of increasing number of broadcasters' requests.

The Open House Meetings will commence from next month with regard to permissions for television channels or teleports and not to appoint any intermediaries or consultants.

All broadcasters have been asked to send e-mails to dirbc-moib@nic.in and navil.kapur@nic.in at least one day in advance so that latest information can be provided. 

Earlier on 11 June, the Ministry had issued a public notice, similar to the one issued late last year, according to which anyone who wished to apply for permission to start a television channel, teleport or various permissions under the Uplinking and Downlinking guidelines, could seek clarifications at the Open House held every month for the purpose and also get information on pending issues.

The Ministry will not entertain any intermediary, consultant, advisor, consultancy organisation or firm to liaise with the Ministry on behalf of applicants and permission holders for following up on their requests.

The Ministry follows an absolutely transparent and open process to grant various permissions to television channels, teleport operators, news agencies etc.

In addition, the Ministry has also put in place a specialised software, Satellite Television Channels Application Tracking System (STATS), for those who have already applied to the Ministry for various permissions. An ID and password has been given to all of them to track the status of their pending applications.

The Ministry is in the process of automating the entire Broadcasting Wing to ensure that an online mechanism is brought for various applications. Once in operation, this web enabled software will help applicants to apply online and also make payments of various fees etc., through the payment gateway.

All applicants and permission holders have therefore been advised not to approach anyone who claims to be an advisor, consultant or facilitator on behalf of applicants.