News Broadcasting
MPCL to produce first indigenous 3D series for TV
NEW DELHI: Taking a cue from renowned fable Panchatantra, Moving Picture Company (India) Ltd is producing its first long format 3D animation series Jungle Tales. The series, expected to be completed by end of this year, will be marketed not only in India, but also in Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and North America.
According to MPCL, the 13-part 22-minute series is Indias first completely indigenous long format 3D animation series for television.
MPCL chief technology officer CB Arun Kumar said, Jungle Tales, inspired by famous tales of yesteryears Panchatantra, is being created considering the lifestyle of todays kids. We felt the narration and treatment of the story needed to be done as per the profile of todays kid, who is much more sophisticated.
Kumar added, “For instance, we have worked on a couple of characters who have mobiles in their hand and enjoy watching television. The stories will convey messages such as ‘slow and steady’ wins the race but with a difference. The values and lessons from such stories always attract children but we felt a need to drift away from the traditional way of story telling.”
MPCL, which specialises in 3D animation, television software and documentary films, is targeting the particular segment of international audiences that has a liking for Indian films. “While our primary target group is kids, the stories make for fun viewing for the entire family. Our primary target audience comprises those who watch Hindi movies. If one can watch K3G at home, they are the ones who are likely to view Jungle Tales as well,” said Kumar.
Besides animation, Moving Pictures television wing is renowned for its award winning documentary films including a recent 52-minute film shot in Afghanistan during the fall of the Taliban post 9/11. MPCL client list includes national broadcaster Doordarshan and Sony’s MAX, for which it produces Current Bollywood, a cinema-based show.
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.
