Doordarshan News celebrated its 21st anniversary. Launched as India’s first public service news channel, Doordarshan News (DD News) has remained a prominent news source despite the competition from private channels. Known for its focus on accurate reporting, DD News holds a unique place in Indian media, balancing traditional broadcast and modern digital platforms.
DD News began as a 24-hour news channel in 2003, transitioning from DD Metro, Doordarshan’s entertainment channel. The channel established itself as a reliable source, overcoming periodic allegations of governmental influence. Studies by Reuters Institute and the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) validate its place as one of India’s most trusted channels.
DD News’ reach across India is unparalleled. It broadcasts terrestrially and via satellite, covering around 49% of the population and 25% of the country’s land area, according to internal data. Its content spans multiple languages, including Hindi, English, Urdu, and Sanskrit, and the channel airs over 17 hours of live news each day. Beyond daily news, DD News also airs special segments on health, sports, business, and culture.
Supported by 14 Regional News Units (RNUs), DD News broadcasts regional content in over 22 languages. As it expands its regional presence, the network now boasts 31 RNUs, allowing it to air more than 145 news bulletins daily, totaling over 50 hours of content. For the Jammu and Kashmir region alone, DD News has two RNUs and an additional bureau in Leh, Ladakh.
DD India, a sister channel of DD News, caters to international audiences with news in English. In October 2020, DD India transitioned to HD format and soon gained recognition from the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India as an English news channel. Its global reach was evident on International Yoga Day 2022, broadcasting live events from over 180 countries in a special show titled Guardian Ring.
In recent years, DD News has embraced digital platforms to connect with younger audiences. The channel actively uses social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, to share updates, counter misinformation, and promote reliable information. These platforms have become instrumental in reinforcing DD News’ credibility and reach.
Staying true to its public service mission, DD News prioritizes national events such as the Republic Day Parade and programs involving prominent dignitaries. Its dedication to factual and impartial reporting has positioned it as a trusted news source within India and abroad.
Credit: This article is based on information from Doordarshan News and Reuters Institute.
Key Highlights:
- Doordarshan News celebrated its 21st anniversary on November 3, 2024, remaining one of India’s most trusted news sources.
- The channel, reaching 49% of India’s population, offers content in multiple languages, covering over 22 regional languages with extensive national outreach.
- DD India, the network’s international channel, has expanded its global reach through HD broadcasting and digital platforms.
- With its commitment to factual, unbiased reporting, DD News has solidified its place as a reputable public service broadcaster.