I&B Ministry
FTII gets new auditorium; I&B minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurates it
MUMBAI: At last some attention is being paid to the venerable Film & Television Institute of India. A new auditorium in its complex was ribbon cut by I&B, railways, and electronics and information technology minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on 11 January.
This marked Vaishnaw’s first visit to the esteemed institution, which operates under the ministry of information and broadcasting. The minister was joined by students as he cut the ribbon and lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter for FTII.
In an open forum with students and faculty following the inauguration, Vaishnaw articulated his vision for FTII’s future, aiming to elevate the institute on the global stage.
“Our legacy and heritage provide a firm foundation to embark on the journey of further excellence,” he stated, emphasising the importance of advancing the institution’s educational offerings.
The minister addressed various questions from faculty and students, particularly regarding the proposed deemed university status for FTII. He also shared his vision for cinema education in India, focusing on strengthening career prospects for students and fostering greater industry linkages.
Citing the success of Gati Shakti Vishvavidyalaya, which has rapidly become a key talent provider for global players, Vaishnaw underlined the importance of such industry partnerships.
The newly inaugurated auditorium, with a seating capacity of 586, is equipped with state-of-the-art features, including a cinema projector, a PA system for stage performances, and a cutting-edge Dolby Atmos surround sound system.
One of its most innovative features is a horizontally movable screen, measuring 50 feet in width and 20 feet in height. This screen can be easily adjusted with a remote control, transforming the auditorium into a full-fledged cinema theatre. This pioneering feature, which sets a new standard for flexibility in auditorium design, is believed to be the first of its kind, and FTII has already filed for a patent for the technology.
During his visit, Vaishnaw also toured various facilities at the institute and interacted with faculty members.
Reflecting on the creative economy, he remarked, “With the talent and ecosystem of FTII, we can become a bigger player in the global entertainment industry.”
I&B Ministry
Akashvani opens airwaves to creative talents with fresh programme proposals
India’s public broadcaster invites creators to pitch new audio content for 2026
NEW DELHI: India’s iconic public service broadcaster, Akashvani, is tuning into a new frequency of creativity. In a move to spruce up its audio offerings, Prasar Bharati has officially invited independent producers, production houses, and content creators to pitch fresh programme proposals for the national network.
The Notice Inviting Programme Proposals (NIPP) aims to diversify the broadcaster’s “programme bouquet” by sourcing high-quality, innovative audio content from external experts. Whether you are a storyteller or a music maestro, the airwaves are officially open for business.
Akashvani is looking for a variety of audio flavours to keep listeners hooked. The wish list includes:
Radio dramas and plays: Engaging series that bring stories to life.
Audio features: Documentaries and innovative audio formats.
Digital-first content: Podcasts and modern storytelling series.
Music and knowledge: Classical, folk, and light music, alongside quiz competitions.
The programmes, which can be in Hindi, English, or various regional languages , must be delivered in “bite-sized” episodes of either 14 or 28 minutes.
Creators can choose from three distinct partnership models:
Revenue sharing mode (RSM): A collaborative approach where production costs are borne by the creator, and advertising revenue is split. If the producer handles the marketing, they keep a 70% share; if Akashvani takes the lead, the producer receives 65%.
Sponsored mode: Perfect for those with their own brand backing. Producers pay a fee and receive free commercial time to promote their sponsors.
Gratis mode: For creators looking to reach a massive audience without financial exchange.
Don’t reach for the microphone just yet. All proposals will be grilled by an Evaluation Committee based on a strict 100 point scoring matrix. Judges will be looking at creative treatment, script quality, sound design, and the “commercial potential” of the idea. Only those scoring 75 marks or higher will make the cut.
Once an agreement is signed with the Prasar Bharati head of programme , successful applicants must maintain a healthy “episode bank” to ensure the show goes on without a hitch.
Hopefuls have until 31 May 2026 to submit their ideas. Proposals should be sent via email to the respective Nodal Office or Cluster Head. All content must strictly adhere to the AIR Broadcast Code and the Commercial Advertising Code of All India Radio.
This initiative marks a significant step for Prasar Bharati as it seeks to blend traditional broadcasting with modern, regional, and innovative audio trends. For those with a story to tell or a song to share, it is time to give the public a reason to listen.
