Source: TOI
Context:
The Government of India is planning to integrate three key media-nodal bodies — the Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI), Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), and Press Information Bureau (PIB) — under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB). The move aims to create a unified, transparent, and responsive communication system for government outreach and media interaction.
Key Highlights:
Purpose of Integration
- The integration seeks to streamline information dissemination, reduce duplication, and ensure faster, verified communication from government ministries.
- It will enhance coordination between departments and strengthen access to authentic government data for journalists.
- Regional and local media outlets will gain quicker and contextual updates, boosting decentralized communication.
Agencies Involved
- Registrar of Newspapers for India (RNI): Regulates newspaper registration and publication details in India.
- Central Bureau of Communication (CBC): Formerly known as the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP); responsible for government advertising and public outreach.
- Press Information Bureau (PIB): The official agency that disseminates information, press releases, and briefings about government policies and initiatives.
Key Features of the Unified System
- Single-window access for journalists and media houses to obtain government:
- Press releases
- Policy briefs
- Multimedia content
- Verified statistics
- Unified database across print, television, and digital media platforms.
- Improved accountability and traceability of official information dissemination.
- Reduction of redundancy and communication delays in public announcements.
About the Three Key Bodies
| Institution | Key Function | Administered By |
|---|---|---|
| RNI (Registrar of Newspapers for India) | Registers and monitors newspapers and periodicals, maintains publisher data | MIB |
| CBC (Central Bureau of Communication) | Handles government publicity, campaigns, and advertising | MIB |
| PIB (Press Information Bureau) | Issues press releases, conducts media briefings, and facilitates official communication | MIB |
