News Broadcasting
NBF seeks members’ view on uplinking/downlinking submission
MUMBAI: The News Broadcasters Federation (NBF) secretariat has requested all its members to take a collective view on its submission to the ministry of information and broadcasting on its uplinking/downlinking policy for private television channels and teleport operators. The initial deadline set is 15 May, 2020.
The NBF secretariat has already reviewed the submissions made by some of its member-channels to TRAI during the consultation process in this regard as well.
The ministry drafted new policy guidelines for uplinking and downlinking of television channels in view of the fact that broadcasting technology and the market scenario have gone through a major change in this decade. The last guidelines for uplinking and downlinking of satellite television channels were issued by the ministry in 2011. MIB has drafted the suggestions after consulting with stakeholders and has also invited comments on the draft from them within 15 days from the date of the issue of the guidelines.
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.
