Module I - Media & Public Policy

I. Disseminating the facets of Media

Understanding the concept of Media
History of Media Theories of Media
Evolution of Media

II. History of Media Legislation

Media Legislation - British experience
Media Legislation in U.S.
Media Legislation in Indian Context

III. Media in the Constitutional Framework

Freedom of Expression in Indian Constitution
Interpretation of Media freedom
Issues of Privacy
Right to Information
Case studies on Media and Free expression

Module II - Media - Regulatory Framework

I. Legal Dimensions of Media

Media & Criminal Law (Defamation / Obscenity/Sedition)
Media & Tort Law (Defamation & Negligence)
Media & Legislature – Privileges of the Legislature
Media & Judiciary – Contempt of Court
Media & Executive – Official Secrets Act
Media & Journalists – Working Journalists (Conditions of Service) Act & Press Council Act

II. Self Regulation & Other Issues

Media and Ethics
Self-Regulation Vs Legal regulation
Media & Human Rights
Issues relating to entry of Foreign Print Media

Module III - Convergence & New Media

I. Understanding Broadcast Sector

Evolution of Broadcast Sector
Airwaves and Government control
Open Skies policy
Licensing issues in Broadcast Sector

II. Legislative efforts on Broadcast sector

Prashar Bharti Act 1990
Broadcasting Bill
Cinematography Act 1952
Cable T.V.Networks (regulation) Act of 1995

III. Opening of Airwaves

Public policy issues on Airwaves
Community Radio Advocacy
Telegraph Act and Broadcast interface

IV. The New Media of Internet

Evolution of Internet as New Media
Regulating the Internet
IT Act of 2000 and media
Convergence Bill (to be enacted)
Regulatory commissions of new media
Indian Telegraph Act of 1885

Module IV - Media – Advertisement & Law

Concept of Advertisement
Advertisement & Ethics
Advertisement Act of 1954
Indecent Representation (prohibition) Act, 1986
The Drugs and Magic Remedies (objectionable) Advertisements Act of 1954
Issues of Consumer Protection
Competition Bill and impact on Advertisements