In the early years of the World Wide Web, there was much talk about the wonderful potential of New Communication Technologies for education, democratization and cultural participation, and of unheard possibilities of human expression and exchange across geographical boundaries.

Unfortunately this potential remains undeveloped and economic interest is now dominating the public sphere of the data networks. Although the Internet, like many other innovations including mobile phones services and the most common search engine Google, was originally developed outside competitive commercial markets, the so-called New Economy has failed miserably.

The development of the essential technologies of a knowledge-based society has largely been surrendered to the "invisible hands" of the markets. But democratization and freedom of expression should not be left to hysteric stock markets or global entrepreneurs.

Prior to the impact of globalization in India, broadcasting was largely controlled by the government. A combination of new technologies, loosening of the broadcasting rules and liberalization has led to a revolution in Indian television and radio. Few years ago, the Indian government gave up its monopoly over the airwaves.

The government has liberalized its foreign investment policy and allowed foreign direct investment in broadcasting, with foreign institutional investors allowed to own up to 20 per cent of radio stations; 49 per cent of cable networks, direct to home (DTH) satellite and unlinking hubs; 26 per cent of news and current affairs television channels; and 100 per cent of non-news and current affairs television channels. Since then, privately owned TV channels have proliferated. A large number of private channels have been granted