DD's DTH service plans to offer more channels

Prasar Bharati (Doordarshan), world’s largest terrestrial broadcaster, has announced to transmit nine more channels under its direct-to-home service (DTH). At present the DTH has a total of 50 channels including 21 radio networks and some private.

In its first phase launched in the year 2004, DD offered 33 channels including vernacular Doordarshan network and channels such as DD Bharti, DD India, DD News, DD Sports, DD National, Gyan Darshan and in addition private channels like Aaj Tak, Headlines Today, Star Utsav, BBC World, ZEE Music, Smile TV etc which add on to its popularity.

As informed by the Chief Executive Officer Prasar Bharti, Baljit Singh Lally, in coming months the number of channel would be increased to 200 considering the growing popularity of DD DTH service and Doordarshan’s aim to have maximum viewership covering as much population.

Covering approx. 88% of India's geographical area, Doordarshan has set up the DTH platform to transmit all ‘Free to Air’ TV channels, All India Radio and some popular private entertainment TV channels in order to meet the audience of far-flung areas which do not have cable access.

Considering the growing popularity of FM radio which presently covers 35.74 per cent of total population, Prasara Bharati is also planning to expand FM channels by adding 148 new transmitters.