2 Channels Removed from DD Dish:
1. Raapchik : Channel Number 10
2. Dhamaal : Channel Number 16
Both the channel replaced by TEST 110 and TEST 116 respectively.
DD Free Dish, India’s only free-to-air (FTA) Direct-To-Home (DTH) service, has transformed the television landscape in the country. Launched in December 2004 by Prasar Bharati, the public service broadcaster, DD Free Dish offers a wide array of channels without any subscription fee, making it accessible to millions of households across India.
History and Evolution
DD Free Dish, initially known as DD Direct Plus, was introduced to provide free access to television content, especially in rural and remote areas where cable TV services were either unavailable or unaffordable. Over the years, it has grown significantly, both in terms of the number of channels offered and its subscriber base. As of 2023, DD Free Dish boasts over 40 million subscribers, making it the largest DTH platform in India.
Channel Lineup and Content
The platform offers a diverse range of channels, including national and regional Doordarshan channels, private entertainment channels, news, music, movies, and educational content. DD Free Dish currently provides 117 television channels, with 94 in MPEG-2 format and 23 in MPEG-4 format. This includes popular channels like DD National, DD News, DD Sports, and regional channels catering to various linguistic groups.
Educational Initiatives
One of the standout features of DD Free Dish is its commitment to educational programming. Under the PM e-Vidya program, the platform broadcasts educational channels for students from classes 1 to 12. This initiative has been particularly beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring uninterrupted learning for millions of students.
Technological Advancements
DD Free Dish has continuously upgraded its technology to enhance the viewing experience. The introduction of MPEG-4 channels has improved picture quality and allowed for more channels to be added to the platform. Additionally, the service now includes four HD channels, providing viewers with high-definition content at no extra cost.
E-Auction System
A unique aspect of DD Free Dish is its e-auction system for allocating channel slots. Private broadcasters bid for slots on the platform, generating revenue for Prasar Bharati. This system ensures a fair and transparent process for channel allocation and has been instrumental in the platform’s growth.
Advantages Over Cable TV
DD Free Dish offers several advantages over traditional cable TV services. Firstly, there is no monthly subscription fee, making it an economical choice for viewers. The only cost involved is a one-time investment of around Rs. 2000 for purchasing a set-top box and dish antenna. Secondly, the service is available nationwide, including in remote and rural areas where cable TV might not reach.
Future Prospects
The future looks promising for DD Free Dish. With the increasing demand for free-to-air services and the continuous addition of new channels, the platform is set to expand its reach further. The government’s push for digital education and the growing popularity of regional content are likely to drive the platform’s growth in the coming years.