DD National is hoping to counter competition from satellite channels, at least on the programming front.

The national broadcaster has invited programme producers to offer their wares in the sponsored category for different time slots. In the prime time slot, DD has asked for three-day serials (Monday to Wednesday) as well as weekly serials. The genres invited are family drama, comedies, sitcoms and thrillers. Weekly serials at prime time have also been invited, according to advertisements released by pubcaster Prasar Bharati.

The pubcaster is also looking for family serials on socially relevant issues on mid prime time slots on weekdays and composite infotainment on breakfast shows. True to its public service image, DD has also asked for programmes on consumer awareness, AIDS awareness, legal advice and population education and women's issues on a weekly independent programme basis.

DD has specified that the programme proposals, along with the pilots, should reach its Delhi office latest by 3 pm on 10 January 2002.