Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled three major initiatives today to strengthen India’s digital and media ecosystem.
The announcement included the National AI Skilling Initiative in partnership with Google and YouTube, the launch of the MyWAVES citizen creator platform on WAVES OTT, and simplified access to DD Free Dish channels through in-built satellite tuners and an advanced programme guide.
Vaishnaw emphasised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of democratizing technology, noting that the initiatives will make digital tools more affordable and accessible. He said the new television sets with in-built tuners will eliminate the need for set-top boxes, reducing costs and improving convenience for households.
The MyWAVES platform will empower citizens to create, upload, and share content, marking a shift from passive viewing to active participation. The Minister urged creators to showcase India’s culture and diversity through these platforms, strengthening the country’s creative economy.
Under the National AI Skilling Initiative, 15,000 creators and media professionals will receive free training. The programme will run in two phases, covering foundational AI learning and advanced project-based specialisation. Modules will include AI essentials, generative AI tools, storytelling, and YouTube best practices.
Industry leaders, including YouTube India’s Managing Director Gunjan Soni, highlighted the potential of AI to expand opportunities for creators and strengthen India’s digital content ecosystem.
Officials said the three initiatives reflect a unified policy direction: building AI capabilities, expanding opportunities for creators, and ensuring wider access to broadcasting. Together, they aim to support India’s emergence as a global hub for digital innovation and content creation.
