News Broadcasting
Sanjay Pugalia joining TV18 as editor Hindi programming
MUMBAI: Sanjay Pugalia, who was displaced in the editorial hierarchy of Star News after former Aaj Tak man Uday Shankar took charge as editor and director of news last month, is joining TV18 as editor for its Hindi language programming initiatives.
The announcement clears the air on where Pugalia was headed (speculation was that he might be joining Sahara Samay) as well as paves the way for the launch sooner rather than later of a Hindi language business channel by TV18.
Prior to his stint at Star, Pugalia was the executive editor of Zee News and before that executive producer of Aaj Tak. He has 22 years experience in print, radio as well as television journalism and spans both business and political reportage.
Welcoming Pugalia on board, Haresh Chawla, CEO, CNBC-TV18 was quoted in an official release as saying, “CNBC-TV18’s Hindi programming has received tremendous response from our audience, this will be further reinforced under his leadership. He brings with him a great deal of expertise in business and political reportage. We are certain that he will be an invaluable asset to our channel.”
When asked by indiantelevision.com whether Pugalia’s appointment pointed to the launch of TV18 Hindi business news channel in the near future, Chawla would not be drawn into a comment.
On his appointment, Sanjay Pugalia added, “Business programming in the Hindi language offers new and exciting possibilities and challenges. I am looking forward to joining the TV18 team shortly.”
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.
