by Deepak Sawant 
The digital content world in India is buzzing with debate and excitement. On one side, there’s a heated copyright clash between major news agency ANI (Asian News International) and several YouTubers. On the other, India’s public broadcaster, Prasar Bharati, has launched a groundbreaking new platform PB Shabd that could change the game for content creators across the country.
PB Shabd offers free access to videos, photographs, audio clips, and news content—all copyright-free. This means creators can use this content without the fear of receiving a copyright strike. For digital creators constantly worried about takedown notices, this is huge.
What’s the Buzz All About?
The controversy began when multiple well-known YouTubers including Mohak Mangal, Rajat Pawar, Nitesh Rajput, and Dhruv Rathee accused ANI of misusing YouTube’s copyright strike system. These creators say they received strikes from ANI just for using short news clips in their videos—even when used under fair use policies like commentary, criticism, and reporting.
For example, Mohak Mangal shared that two of his videos received copyright strikes from ANI. A third one, he feared, could lead to his channel being deleted. He insisted that he used the clips only to provide political and social commentary.
Another YouTuber, Rajat Pawar, said ANI demanded a penalty of over ₹18 lakh (plus GST) for using just a few seconds of their footage. He called it “extortion”, and emphasized how difficult it is for small creators to survive such legal threats.
Popular creator Paurush Sharma, who has over 1.5 million subscribers, also said he fears losing his channel. All of them agree on one point: ANI’s copyright actions feel like a direct attack on creators’ freedom of expression.
ANI’s Side of the Story
ANI responded by stating they have every right to protect their content. They say creating news footage takes huge investments—journalists, camerapersons, equipment, and more. They offer a subscription model starting at ₹1 lakh per month for those who want to use their material legally.
ANI says: “Free speech does not mean free footage.”
They argue that TV channels and news websites pay them for the same content. So why shouldn’t YouTubers?
Still, many creators believe that ANI is striking even tiny clips that clearly fall under India’s Copyright Act of 1957, Section 52, which allows the use of limited content for reporting, criticism, and education.
The Rise of PB Shabd: A New Hope for Creators
In the middle of all this, Prasar Bharati launched PB Shabd, a free and official government-backed digital platform for content creators. It provides trustworthy, copyright-free content for creators.
On its official handle, PB Shabd posted:
“No need to fear copyright strikes. Get government-authenticated, free content—strike-free on PB Shabd. A game-changer for creators.”
The hashtag #CreatorsWithShabd quickly started trending as many celebrated this move as a victory for creative freedom. For creators tired of dealing with expensive licensing models or unfair copyright strikes, PB Shabd feels like a breath of fresh air.
What Can You Access on PB Shabd?
Creators registered with PB Shabd will have access to:
- Real-time news updates
- Government-sourced photos and videos
- Audio clips and articles
- Multi-format content (text, audio, visual)
The biggest benefit? No copyright worries. Everything is officially cleared for use, making it a safe space for creators.
While full details about registration are yet to be released, it’s expected that creators will need to sign up via the PB Shabd website or app. They may also need to share YouTube or social media profiles for identity verification.
The registration may require documents like:
- PAN card
- Identity proof
- Proprietor or business verification
Once approved, creators will get instant access to a content library they can use in videos, blogs, reels, and more—completely free.
Why This Matters for the Creator Community
This initiative by Prasar Bharati comes at a crucial time. Here’s why PB Shabd is a game-changer:
1. No More Copyright Strikes
Thousands of creators worry daily about copyright claims. With PB Shabd, that fear is gone. The content is government-cleared and safe to use.
2. Free and Reliable Content
Unlike private news agencies that charge high subscription fees, PB Shabd offers free access to trusted news materials.
3. Boosts Credibility
Using government-approved content adds to a creator’s reliability and professionalism.
4. Saves Time and Money
No more legal trouble, settlement fees, or content takedowns. Creators can now focus on building their channels and communities.
5. Encourages News-Based Content
This platform supports those who want to create informative videos on current affairs, government schemes, or social issues.
Some experts are calling this a smart move by Prasar Bharati, as it not only supports digital creators but also helps spread government news to a wider audience.
The Bigger Picture: Copyright Laws Need an Update
The ANI vs. YouTuber case brings attention to a much-needed debate. India’s Copyright Act of 1957 is outdated for the digital age. With platforms like YouTube becoming a major source of news and commentary, clearer rules on fair use are essential.
YouTube’s current system often lets strikes go unchallenged unless creators take legal action—something most small creators cannot afford. This puts immense pressure on them to either pay up or risk losing their content and audience.
PB Shabd, in contrast, encourages a collaborative model where creators are empowered instead of punished.
Is PB Shabd Perfect?
Not yet. Critics point out that unlike ANI or PTI, PB Shabd currently lacks in:
- Volume of raw footage
- High-quality video packages
- Exclusive bytes and visuals
So, it may take some time before it becomes a full alternative to private news providers. But for now, it is a solid start, especially for new and independent creators who can’t afford expensive licenses.
Why Should Creators Join PB Shabd?
Because it offers something rare in the content world: freedom with authenticity.
When a well-known journalist like Sudhir Chaudhary can access premium government content, why shouldn’t everyday creators benefit too? After all, this is public information funded by taxpayers.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Digital Creativity?
Whether PB Shabd can fully disrupt the content ecosystem remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: it offers hope and opportunity.
For content creators, this is a moment to reflect. Do you want to spend your energy fighting copyright strikes? Or would you rather create freely with trusted resources?
If you’re a YouTuber, podcaster, journalist, or content creator of any kind, now is the time to:
- Sign up on PB Shabd
- Get free, strike-safe content
- Start building content that is informative, ethical, and protected
This initiative may also push YouTube, lawmakers, and media companies to rethink how digital rights are handled.
Final Call
PB Shabd is more than just a content platform—it’s a sign of progress in the digital rights space. And for creators looking to grow without fear, it’s the start of a new journey.
Don’t wait. Visit the official PB Shabd site, register your channel, and grab this chance to unlock copyright-free content for creators—no strings attached.
