News Broadcasting
BBC using computer phone technology to boost quality of radio journalism
MUMBAI: UK pubcaster the BBC is counting on a pocket computer phone is set to revolutionise newsrooms and newsgathering across BBC Local Radio in Britain.
Earlier this year BBC Radio Lincolnshire linked up with the Maastricht-based Technica del Arte to transform a pocket PC phone, the XDA, into a professional recording device capable of sending high quality sound down a mobile phone line or from a wi-fi spot.
After exhaustive testing by Radio Lincolnshire staff for the past six months the pilot scheme has been judged so successful that it is to be rolled out to all BBC radio stations across the UK.
It has also been shortlisted for an international IBC Innovation Award, to be judged at a ceremony in Amsterdam in September.
BBC controller of English Regions Andy Griffee said, “This new technology means that journalists are totally self-contained. They no longer need to waste time travelling to and from base – they can prepare and broadcast quality radio direct from the scene of the story without going anywhere near a studio, ISDN line or mobile transmitter. This has revolutionised newsrooms and newsgathering in Lincolnshire, and will do the same across the country.”
The phone can also send pictures for use on web sites and ‘first break’ video footage for television. The BBC says that the technology means that its journalists now spend less time in the office and more time out in the field producing an average of 50 per cent more audio than using conventional recording devices.
Another benefit is that everyone has a phone with them at all times – therefore there is potentially much quicker/better response and coverage of any major stories which break.
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.
