News Broadcasting
Network18’s Green Bharat conclave to chart India’s road to green
MUMBAI: As the world races toward a greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) are taking centre stage in the quest for sustainable mobility. In this spirit of innovation and commitment to environmental responsibility, Network18 is set to launch Green Bharat, an annual conclave scheduled for 13 December 2024 in New Delhi. This initiative in collaboration with Ola Electric, aims to ignite a nationwide conversation about the transformative power of EVs, spotlighting their economic, environmental, and social benefits while addressing the challenges that stand in the way of widespread adoption.
Green Bharat has been launched in collaboration with Ola Electric, a leading pure-play electric vehicle (EV) company to chart the Road to Green. This is designed to be an ongoing, multi-platform conversation spanning television, digital platforms, print, and on-ground activation. This integrated approach ensures a holistic coverage of India’s vast EV landscape, fostering collaboration and innovation at every level of the ecosystem.
The maiden edition of Green Bharat will bring together influential policymakers, industry pioneers, and sustainability advocates to discuss the future of electric mobility in India. The event will feature distinguished guests, including Nitin Gadkari, union minister of road transport and highways, and Piyush Goyal, minister of commerce and industry, who will attend as guests of honour. Their participation will underscore the growing importance of EV adoption in the context of India’s broader sustainability goals and the pivotal role of government policies in driving this transition.
The prime minister, Narendra Modi, has emphasised the pivotal role of the EV revolution, stating that the silent revolution of electric vehicles is reshaping India’s mobility landscape, marking a significant step towards sustainability and innovation. This transition reflects India’s commitment to addressing climate change and promoting green growth. With sustained investments in EV infrastructure, local manufacturing incentives, and technological innovation, India is all set to become a global hub for electric mobility.
AETN18 chief executive officer Network18 (broadcast) & managing director Avinash Kaul stated, “The global automotive industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards electrification, reshaping economies worldwide. India’s transition to electric vehicles is not only an environmental milestone but also a significant driver of economic growth. Green Bharat is bringing the EV community together and highlighting the dynamic potential of this emerging sector. We are thrilled to partner with Ola Electric, a brand that has been a leader in driving EV adoption in India, and we share their passion for a sustainable, electrified future.”
Green Bharat aims to be a transformative platform for driving meaningful discussions and fostering collaborative efforts to address the challenges within India’s electric vehicle ecosystem. By focusing on innovation, policy advocacy, and actionable solutions, the initiative will play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of EVs across the country. The conclave will facilitate an in-depth analysis of India’s current EV landscape, identifying key challenges and opportunities, while setting a clear roadmap for positioning India as a global EV hub. Through these efforts, Green Bharat aims to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for the nation, embarking on the Road to Green and inspiring collective action towards environmental responsibility.
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.
