News Broadcasting
Law Commission to complete recommendation on paid news soon
NEW DELHI: The Law Commission is expected to complete its recommendations relating to paid news during election soon. It is currently studying the laws related to election laws in entirety.
Information and Broadcasting Ministry sources tell indiantelevision.com that recommendations for changes in laws relating to the Press Council of India and the Cable TV Networks (Regulation) Act would be taken up after a consultation with the Election Commission.
Furthermore, based on the recommendations of the standing committee on Information Technology, inclusion of provisions in the ‘Press and Registration of Books and Publications Bill’ to check the incidents of paid news are being examined.
The Press Council of India has formulated ‘Norms of Journalistic Conduct’ to be adhered by the media. These norms prescribe that advertisements should be clearly demarcated from news by printing disclaimers. As far as news is concerned, it must always carry a credit line and should be set in a typeface that would distinguish it from advertisements. The council has also drawn up a set of guidelines that are applicable to financial journalism and also on reporting of elections.
So far as electronic media is concerned, all private satellite TV channels are required to adhere to the Programme & Advertising Codes prescribed under Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, 1995 and the rules framed there under.
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.
