Srinagar
The union government has decided to revamp DD Kashir, Doordarshan’s 24×7 satellite channel that reaches to all parts of the state, as part of the government’s efforts to reach out to the people of J&K and make them feel part of the mainstream, a media report said.
The channel will show blockbusters such as Aamir Khan-starrer Dangal and Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan this month to spread happiness among the masses, economic times reported.
Both movies have been widely appreciated for their message on nationalism and love for India. The government has approved over Rs 40 crore for the revamp of DD Kashir, which will also air Kashmiri Kaun Banega Crorepati and a singing reality show.
The publicity of the channel begins on Monday, coinciding with home minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the state.
Prasar Bharati officials said the broadcaster has been working on this project, anchored by the home ministry, for several months now. As per the proposal, an outlay of Rs 41 crore is planned for complete revamp.
“The attempt is to take entertainment, as well as a message that they are being cared for, to the people of the valley,” a senior home ministry official said.
“To start with, 52 episodes of top 10 songs are being planned for now. We have dedicated Rs 18 crore for Kashmiri KBC that will begin from December. Since music is an important part of Kashmir, a reality talent hunt show has been planned which can cost up to Rs 9 crore,” he said.
Launched to promote Kashmiri culture and counter Pakistani propaganda, DD Kashir has not produced any cultural programme in the last many years which is being corrected now, said senior officials. Currently, the channel broadcasts news, interviews, an educational show for students and repeat of shows from other channels.
But officials said from now on there will be an effort to come up with serials, documentaries, or reality shows on the channel. Only recently, the public broadcaster had invited applications for an agency to undertake the packaging work for the channel. (Economic Times)
