BEIJING- China's top broadcasting watchdog has ordered a ban on advertisements inserted in TV dramas amid its efforts to improve cultural services for the public.

The State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT) on Monday released a series of regulations, to take effect January 1, ordering broadcasters not to insert any commercials that could disrupt TV dramas.

"The elimination of commercials can effectively ensure the integrity and coherence of the TV plots and conform to the public interests and aspirations," an unnamed spokesman with the SARFT said.

"In the long-run, the move will help TV dramas develop in a scientific and healthy manner, and spur the TV channels to put people first and improve their public service," the spokesman said.

To ensure the ban is executed, the administration issued a supplementary circular to the regulations, which requires all TV channels to "clear" and "cancel" commercials and re-arrange their TV programs' schedules.

The administration warned any violations of the ban would incur harsh punishments and invited audiences to monitor how well the TV stations follow the regulations.