Q. State Funding of recognized Political parties through free use of the state-owned Television and radio was introduced in the year (December 2023, UGC NET)

1. 1977

2. 1979

3. 1984

4. 1998

Correct Ans: (4)

Explanation: State funding of recognized political parties in India, particularly through the free use of state-owned television and radio, was introduced in the year 1998. This initiative was part of broader electoral reforms aimed at ensuring a level playing field for all political parties, allowing them equitable access to public broadcasting services for their campaign messages. This measure was intended to reduce the influence of money in politics and to provide all political parties, regardless of their financial strength, with an opportunity to communicate with the electorate.