News Broadcasting
Govt explores mechanism for rating TV programmes
NEW DELHI: The Indian government is exploring whether a mechanism could be set in place whereby television programmes too can be classified under different ratings as films give out advisory on viewing.
This move is being explored as part of a content regulatory framework that the government proposes to put up in place in deference to complaints received on indifferent and vulgar software being put out by TV channels and also with a view to bring in some sort of semblance in a chaotic industry where there are no laid down rules.
Though it’s early to say whether such a regime would lead to further liberalisation or not, the government, as part of an advisory sent out to various channels, has asked for feedback on the need to change the existing programming and advertising code also.
Next week, the information and broadcasting ministry is slated to hold a round of discussions with various stakeholders of the broadcast and cable industry, including non-governmental organisations and consumer bodies, on the issue of content regulation.
Amongst the topics for discussion that have been listed are norms of decency during coverage of events and incidents, to what level privacy of individuals should be maintained, whether programming and advertising codes need to be re-visited, whether TV programming likes serials too should be rated for viewing (U, UA or A).
In connection with ratings of TV programming, another topic for discussion is whether trailers for movies and music videos get censor certificates and ratings and should these be adhered to strictly or not.
A Delhi-based media critic, on being asked about the feasibility of rating TV programmes said, “If the film ratings are strictly enforced for TV, quite a few popular Hindi soaps are likely to end up getting ratings of UA (parental guidance needed for viewing) or A (strictly for adults). And, some programmes on English channels may permanently get an A certificate.”
Inconsistent policies and regulatory framework have hampered the Indian market’s potential development. According to a report prepared by the Hong Kong-based Media Partners Asia, “India’s broadband cable and satellite TV industry, a $2.7 billion revenue opportunity in 2004, is in a state of flux as uncertainties surrounding market regulation and competition in the delivery of video services cloud visibility over the potential of one of Asia’s most attractive consumer blocks.”
News Broadcasting
Kamlesh Singh receives Haldi Ghati Award from MMCF
India Today Group editor honoured for three decades of journalism at Udaipur ceremony.
MUMBAI- Kamlesh Singh just turned a lifetime of sharp words into a shiny shield because when journalism wakes up a society, even the Maharana of Mewar wants to pin a medal on it.
The Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF) conferred its prestigious Haldi Ghati Award on Kamlesh Singh, a senior editor at the India Today Group, during a ceremony in Udaipur on 15 March 2026. The national award, instituted in 1981-82, recognises “work of permanent value that initiates an awakening in society through the medium of journalism.”
Singh, who leads several editorial initiatives including Aaj Tak Radio, the Teen Taal community and The Lallantop, was presented the honour by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Managing Trustee of MMCF. The citation highlighted his three decades of contributions to Indian media, innovations in digital journalism, mentoring young reporters, and his popular podcast persona “Tau” on Teen Taal, which fosters thoughtful public discourse.
The Haldi Ghati Award, named after the historic Battle of Haldighati symbolising valour and resilience, is one of four national awards given annually by MMCF. Past recipients include Tavleen Singh, Piyush Pandey and Raj Chengappa.
Other honourees this year included Padma Vibhushan Pt Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Vedamurti Devvrat Rekhe, Treeman of India Marimuthu Yoganathan, Vir Chakra Capt Rizwan Malik, and US-based researcher Molly Emma Aitken, who received the Colonel James Tod Award for contributions to understanding Mewar’s spirit and values.
In an era where headlines often shout louder than substance, the MMCF quietly reminded everyone that real journalism isn’t about noise, it’s about the quiet, persistent work that stirs society awake, one thoughtful story at a time.
