The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has expanded Prasar Bharati’s digital presence through two major initiatives: WAVES OTT, a public-service streaming platform launched in November 2024, and MyWAVES, a creator platform that went live in March 2026. Together, these services move India’s state broadcaster from traditional television and radio into an integrated digital ecosystem accessible on smartphones, smart TVs and websites.
WAVES OTT combines live channels, radio services, archived programmes, educational content and publications in a single multilingual app. MyWAVES allows citizens to create and upload original videos, turning audiences into creators. Both platforms aim to democratise access to India’s broadcasting heritage while nurturing new talent.
Key facts
- WAVES OTT launched 20 November 2024 at the International Film Festival of India in Goa
- MyWAVES launched 23 March 2026
- 1.2 crore registered users and over 1.5 crore downloads of WAVES OTT
- Over 24,000 titles and 15,000 hours of content available
- 140+ television channels and 220 radio services accessible live
- Content available in 26 languages, platform interface in 10+ languages
- Accessible in 130+ countries
- Gems of India pilot launched 21 July 2026 across six States and Union Territories
- Gems of India submissions accepted 1-31 August 2026
- WAVES Summit 2025 (May 1-4, 2025 in Mumbai): 10,000+ delegates from 100+ countries, 1,000 creators, 300+ companies, 350+ start-ups
- Create in India Challenges attracted nearly one lakh registrations
- WAVES Bazaar generated Rs 1,328 crore in business transactions
What WAVES OTT offers
WAVES OTT consolidates content previously scattered across Doordarshan television channels and Akashvani radio stations into one digital platform. Users can watch on-demand films, documentaries and archived programmes; tune into live broadcasts of all 35 Doordarshan satellite channels and Akashvani services; access educational content from PM eVidya; read e-publications including Yojana and Kurukshetra magazines; and access integrated shopping through ONDC.
Unlike commercial streaming services, WAVES OTT prioritises public information, education, culture and news alongside entertainment. It removes the barrier of fixed broadcast schedules and geographic location, letting users choose content timing and device. Regional subtitles and improved search help viewers find content in their preferred languages.
How MyWAVES works
MyWAVES is a structured national platform within WAVES OTT where citizens can create, upload and share original videos. Creators can submit short videos, vertical videos and episodic content in Indian languages. The platform targets emerging creators outside established media networks, particularly those with regional stories and local talent to showcase.
The Gems of India Challenge demonstrates MyWAVES in action. Launched as a pilot across six States and Union Territories in July 2026, it invited creators to submit one-to-three-minute videos about their districts. Eligible topics include local culture, heritage, tourism, folk traditions, handicrafts, regional cuisine and local innovations. The challenge involves Prasar Bharati, My Bharat, State administrations and cultural institutions, with YouTube and Meta supporting creator outreach. The programme is expected to expand nationwide.
Content sourcing and expansion
WAVES OTT introduced a Pay-Per-View Content Sourcing Policy to transparently invite producers and rights holders to submit quality content. The platform has integrated ONDC for shopping and railway-related digital distribution initiatives, creating multiple routes for Indian and regional content to reach audiences.
The broader WAVES ecosystem
WAVES OTT and MyWAVES operate within a larger ecosystem anchored by the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES). The inaugural summit in May 2025 in Mumbai convened 10,000+ delegates from 100+ countries, including 1,000 creators, 300+ companies and 350+ start-ups. The summit featured the Global Media Dialogue, CreatoSphere talent showcase, Create in India Challenges, WAVES Bazaar (connecting projects with investors, generating Rs 1,328 crore in transactions) and WaveX (supporting media-tech start-ups).
The Create in India Challenges alone attracted nearly one lakh registrations from over 60 countries, with 750+ finalists and 150+ awardees. WAVES continues these platforms beyond the annual summit, providing year-round connections between talent, businesses and investors.
What this means for you
If you are a student or job seeker, WAVES OTT offers PM eVidya educational content free on demand. If you are a regional creator, MyWAVES provides a national institutional platform to showcase your work without needing to pitch to commercial networks. If you speak a regional language, WAVES OTT brings content in 26 languages with subtitles and multilingual search. If you are part of the Indian diaspora, the platform extends Indian public broadcasting to 130+ countries. If you run a media or entertainment start-up, WAVES Summit platforms connect you with investors and mentorship throughout the year.
What happens next
Gems of India is expanding from its six-state pilot to all States and Union Territories, building a nationwide network of grassroots digital creators. WAVES Summit platforms continue year-round, connecting talent with markets and investment opportunities. WAVES OTT will continue adding content through new sourcing policies and distribution partnerships.