News Broadcasting
Broadcasting needs regulator: Prasad
NEW DELHI: Minister for information and broadcasting Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that there is a definite need for a separate regulatory body for electronic media.
Speaking on the occasion of the National Press Day celebrations here yesterday (Sunday), the minister indicated that the Press Council of India’s recommendations, on the need to have a mechanism aimed at regulating the fast growing television network, was under active consideration.
He said the content and advertisement on televisions need to be codified and he proposes to put the issue to national debate before arriving at an applicable conclusion.
According to Prasad, empowerment of the Press Council was desirable but not at the cost of impinging on the freedom of press.
The minister said the media has a vital role to play in strengthening the democracy and, thus, acquires a natural right to inform without fear. A free press can exist in a vibrant democracy therefore it is imperative on the part of press to strengthen democracy. It needs to keep in mind the grass-root realities and report without any biases. The right to inform has to be the integral role of media it should also shun pessimism and notice positive developments of the society, he added.
Prasad said that the media in India is undergoing a “total metamorphosis” and its institutional role was being threatened by corporate commerce. The traditional role of media has come under question because of immense competition and cross-media ownership, he pointed out.
Pointing out that the institutional role of media needs prominence and the government on its part has no intention to intervene, Prasad said that the same time media also needs to be careful and a responsible pillar of society.
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.
