After permitting 26 per cent foreign direct investment in news and current affairs publications, the government is now contemplating FDI in news agencies.

"The policy of FDI in news agencies is based on a policy drafted in 1954. It is a matter that requires a fresh look. We are contemplating the issue as the sector needs infusion of fresh resources," said Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Ravi Shankar Prasad.

He, however, said that a decision on this would be taken after wider consultations with the media. "This needs a greater level of consultation with the players in the sector," he said, without giving a time frame for a policy on the issue.

Prasad also said that he is currently studying the proposal on a legislation for the creation of a broadcasting regulatory authority that would regulate content on TV channels.

The idea had been proposed by his predecessor Sushma Swaraj, who had planned to introduce a bill on this in the current session of Parliament. "I don't believe in moral policing. My approach, appeal and request is self-regulation. It is evident that there is need for self-regulation," he said.

Prasad said a programme and advertising code was already in place for broadcasters and he was not considering a regulatory authority.

On the issue of on allowing foreign news channels to uplink from India, Prasad said, "Opinions from various ministries have come and the I&B ministry is examining them. We will soon take the issue to the consideration of the Cabinet."

Similarly, on the various issues regarding direct-to-home television broadcasting, the minister said that the issues are being looked into.

Prasad also said that the government will not alter the deadline to roll out the conditional access system from July 14.

"The government will not change the deadline. At the moment, we are examining various issues like the pricing and structure of the basic tier, the roll out plans etc. The ministry has also set up a task force for this," Prasad said.

He also said that the government wants to develop India as a hub for the entertainment sector.

Besides, the government will also review the norms regarding allowing shooting of foreign films in India. Some of the regulations that govern film production result in lengthy procedures for interested parties.

Run-up to the Budget 2003