News Broadcasting
MIB advisory to news channels over sign language interpretation of R-day parade
M UMBAI: The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has issued an advisory to all news TV Channels stating that all channels interested in telecasting the live coverage of the Republic Day Parade-2014, with commentary should carry the signals of DD which provide sign language interpretation of the parade. In this context, it had already been decided that three channels of Doordarshan viz. DD- News, DD- Bharati and DD- Urdu would provide the sign language interpretation of the Republic Day Parade commentary in order to ensure access to people with hearing impairment. Prasar Bharati had been earlier directed for making such provisions for having an inset box on the TV screens during the telecast of the Republic Day Ceremony, through which the Sign Language Anchor/Expert could interpret the proceedings of the Republic Day parade.
It has been the practice by DD to allow private satellite TV channels to carry the feed of the Republic Day parade and commentary free of cost. As per the practice, this year also DD would be sharing its feed of the Republic Day Parade with those satellite TV channels which wish to telecast the same.
The advisory also states that while media has been in the forefront of taking up important issues of national interest, this initiative by the media to facilitate access to the Republic Day parade and commentary to people with disabilities was a step in the right direction.
The decision has been taken in the interest of all those who are differently-abled, hearing impaired citizens. Recently the Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Shri Manish Tewari received a representation from the National Association of Deaf requesting for providing sign language interpreter in an inset box on TV screens during the live coverage of the Republic Day Parade. The Minister assured that prompt action would be taken regarding their request. The same has been done. This initiative has been taken for the first time by the Ministry and in the shortest possible duration.
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
