New Delhi: Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster, has ventured into the over-the-top (OTT) streaming market with the launch of its platform, WAVES, during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. This strategic move aims to modernize access to Indian content while catering to a diverse audience across urban and rural regions.
WAVES is a multi-functional OTT platform offering live television, video-on-demand, gaming, radio streaming, and more than 65 live channels. It integrates content in 12 languages, catering to various genres, including entertainment, education, and cultural programming. The platform also features archival content like historical documentaries, photographs, and rare publications, alongside fresh, original shows. The initiative was spearheaded by Prasar Bharati in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The platform was unveiled by Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, with contributions from Secretary Sanjay Jaju and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gaurav Dwivedi.
The OTT platform bridges the gap between traditional broadcasting and digital services, making Indian content more accessible while promoting cultural heritage. It aims to counter the dominance of private players and serve a wide audience with free and subscription-based content models. Several central government ministries and states have also collaborated with WAVES for content development, to codevelop content from docudramas and reality shows. The platform will also feature a cyber security awareness campaign in partnership with CDAC, MeitY, supported by programs like ‘Cyber Crime ki Duniya’ and ‘Cyber Alert.’
WAVES combines technological innovation with cultural richness. It includes app-in-app integrations for gaming, e-commerce, and education. Content partnerships with creators and institutions like FTII and Annapurna Studios further enhance its offerings. With WAVES, Prasar Bharati plans to redefine India’s digital entertainment landscape, providing wholesome family content and opportunities for young creators.
