(a) whether the programmes in Bengali language are not being transmitted in the
several parts of West Bengal adjoining Jharkhand;
(b) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to upgrade the transmitters of Doordarshan
covering the adjoining areas of West Bengal?
THE MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING AND CULTURE (SHRI S. JAIPAL REDDY)
(a) to (c) : Prasar Bharati has informed that Doordarshan`s terrestrial signals are
available to 97.1 % of the population of West Bengal. Areas not covered by terrestrial
coverage in the State and other parts of the country (excluding the A&N Islands ) can
now receive the DD`s Ku Band transmission service (DTH) with its bouquet consisting
of 33 TV channels including DD Bangla, and 12 Radio channels with the help of a small
sized dish receive unit.
In so far as All India Radio is concerned, Programmes in Bengali language are
broadcast from all stations located in West Bengal and is available to about 99% of the
population in the State. There is, therefore, no scheme to upgrade TV transmitters in
West Bengal in the areas adjoining Jharkhand.