In a major move to simplify television viewing and promote digital skills, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting on Monday unveiled television sets with built-in satellite tuners and an intuitive electronic programme guide (EPG).The initiative allows viewers to access DD Free Dish channels directly on their TVs without requiring a separate set-top box, reducing costs, wiring complexity and the need for multiple remotes.Launching the initiative, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw said, “With in-built satellite tuners and an advanced programme guide, citizens can now access content easily without additional equipment.” He added that the user-friendly guide would allow viewers to browse channels and programme schedules seamlessly.Vaishnaw also inaugurated the National AI Skilling Initiative, in partnership with Google and YouTube, implemented through the Indian Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT), and MyWAVES, a citizen creator platform on WAVES OTT. These programmes aim to strengthen India’s media, broadcasting and digital sectors, while supporting the creative economy.The Minister described MyWAVES as a “powerful platform for content creators, enabling them to create, upload and share content”.Highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting the ‘Orange Economy’ (or creative economy), he said these initiatives align with the Union Budget’s focus on empowering the creative sector.MyWAVES transforms WAVES OTT from a viewing platform into a space for both content consumption and creation. It supports multiple formats, including short and vertical videos as well as episodic content, offers a multilingual interface, and aims to empower emerging creators and storytellers across India.The AI skilling programme seeks to train 15,000 participants from the creative and media sectors, enhancing their capabilities in animation, visual effects, gaming, comics (AVGC), and media technology.Gunjan Soni, Managing Director, YouTube India, said, “Artificial Intelligence has the potential to open remarkable opportunities for India’s dynamic creative economy. Through our collaboration with the I&B Ministry and IICT, we aim to equip creators with the skills to leverage AI, tell compelling stories, expand their reach and shape the future of media. It also reflects our continued commitment to a Digital India, where technology serves as an enabler for all.”