News Broadcasting
BBC World on Sri Lanka’s CBNSat DTH platform
MUMBAI: From 27 May, BBC World, the 24-hour international news and information channel, is available to viewers across Sri Lanka on the country’s first direct-to-home platform – CBNSat (Communiq Broadband Network).
BBC World already reaches thousands of households across the country through multi-channel multipoint distribution system [MMDS] and cable platforms, informs a BBC release.
BBC World head of network development Gerry Ritchie says, “Sri Lanka is an important and growing market for BBC World and we are very excited to be part of this new platform and the horizons it opens up for us in the region.”
“The channel has a significant following here, especially in light of our coverage of the recent tsunami tragedy. We look forward to providing viewers with our award-winning journalism and news reporting,” Ritchie adds.
Handling the region, BBC World regional manager T.R. Bhakthavatsala adds, “This is fantastic news and a great technological advancement for the broadcasting industry in Sri Lanka. The DTH service, using state-of-the-art technology, will offer viewers better quality television output.”
CNBSat’s service is founded in partnership with Hong Kong-based Asia Broadband Network Ltd.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
