Question : Registration-Issuance of Broadcasting Licenses to Online News Channels

(a) whether the Government has any policy to register or issue broadcasting licenses to online news channels;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the number of licenses issued to online news channels during the last four years, State/UT-wise;
(c) whether it is a fact that a number of illegal online news channels are running/
operating from the country; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and the action taken by the Government against such illegal online news channels during the said period?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING {COL. RAJYAVARDHAN RATHORE (Retd.)}


(a) to (d): Policy matters relating to information technology and internet are governed by the Information Technology Act, 2000 administered by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Presently, this Ministry has no legislation/ policy to register or issue licenses to online news channels/ portals.
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