The number of new registrations and renewals for radio, television, and newspapers has been decreasing, while the number of online media registrations has been increasing. This shift is happening because of advancements in information technology, which have led to a decline in traditional media registrations and a rise in online media as “new media.” However, since YouTube is not officially registered, its exact number is uncertain.
According to Purnima Upadhyaya, the spokesperson for the Department of Information and Broadcasting, the number of registrations and renewals for radio, television, and newspapers has been declining. While many online media outlets are being registered, only a few renew their licenses regularly. The department reported that from March 22, 2017, to mid-January of the current fiscal year, a total of 4,860 online media outlets were registered. In the fiscal year 2023/24, 556 online media were registered, but only 492 renewed their licenses. By mid-January of the current fiscal year, 227 online media were registered, but only 186 renewed their licenses.
As of the fiscal year 2022/23, a total of 1,186 FM radio stations were registered, with only 714 regularly broadcasting. In the fiscal year 2023/24, 1,193 FM stations were registered, but only 722 were actively broadcasting. By mid-January of the current fiscal year, 1,198 FM stations were registered, but only 731 renewed their licenses and remained in operation.
Similarly, in the fiscal year 2022/23, a total of 243 television stations were registered, but only 102 were regularly broadcasting. In 2023/24, 245 television stations were registered, with only 106 actively operating. By mid-January of the current fiscal year, 247 television stations were registered, but only 108 remained in operation.
Across the country, the number of daily newspapers reached 766 by the fiscal year 2023/24, increasing to 771 by mid-January of the current fiscal year. In 2022/23, a total of 2,987 weekly newspapers were registered, which slightly increased to 2,991 by mid-January of this fiscal year.
Spokesperson Upadhyaya mentioned that, according to constitutional provisions, once a media outlet is registered, there is no provision for cancellation, which is why the number of actively operating media outlets is lower. She explained, “When the internet was not widely used, many people registered FM radios, television stations, and newspapers. But with the growth of information technology, all media have started relying on the internet, leading to an increase in online media registrations.” She further added, “Since the government does not require YouTube channels to be registered or issue press cards for them, the number of online media registrations appears higher.”
