News Broadcasting
Doordarshan flags off formal hunt for DG
MUMBAI: The public broadcaster Doordarshan (DD) has made its hunt for a new ‘director general’ official. Prasar Bharati has released ads soliciting applications for the post of director general, Doordarshan from eligible officers willing to be appointed on deputation basis.
As per a Prasar Bharati notification, those eligible for the post are officers of All India Services or Central Services Group “A” holding analogous posts on regular basis or with three years regular service in the pay scale of Rs 18,400-22,400 or equivalent; and empanelled as joint secretary to the government of India with three years regular service and having experience in media or mass communication or public administration.
Officers of the senior administrative grade of broadcasting (programme) service have also been notified by Prasar Bharati as being eligible for the appointment by promotion. However, departmental officers would not be eligible to apply, says the ad.
The appointment, which carries an age limit of 55 years – relaxable upto two years on central government approval, is slated to be on a three-year deputation basis in the revised pay scale of Rs 24,050-650-26,000.
The application forms are available on the official Prasar Bharati websites – www.ddindia.com and www.allindiaradio.org.
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.
