News Broadcasting
Aaj Tak, CNN IBN win poll endgame ratings
MUMBAI: Though the verdict of the 2009 general election was far from what the news channels expected or projected, the endgame drama on 16 May certainly drew in peak viewers.
The Hindi TV news genre jumped almost three-fold to 14.87 per cent on the counting day, up from the previous week’s standing at 5.08 per cent. This, however, remained lower than what the genre enjoyed as a share percentage last time round, according to Tam data for C&S 15+ in the Hindi speaking market. In 2004, the counting day on 13 May saw the share of the genre surging to 24.25 per cent from its previous week’s draw of 5.06 per cent.
Aaj Tak led the pack with 27 per cent of channel share, followed by Star news with 19 per cent and India TV 13 per cent. IBN7 remained fourth in the viewership ladder with a 10 per cent share, while Zee News took a share of 9 per cent and NDTV India 7 per cent.
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.
