News Headline
UK government weighs BBC licence fee reform for streaming users
MUMBAI: The British media is all agog about British prime minister Keir Starmer’s government’s plans to modernise the BBC licence fee, including extending it to those who only use streaming services such as Netflix and Disney+. The review is part of discussions between the prime minister’s office, the Treasury, and the department for culture, media, and sport on how to fund the public-service broadcaster beyond its current charter, which expires on 31 December 2027.
Other proposals being considered include allowing the BBC to run advertisements, imposing a special tax on streaming platforms, or introducing a fee for BBC radio listeners.
The potential reforms come amid changing viewing habits, with audiences increasingly shifting to on-demand services. The government is reviewing whether to retain the existing £169.50 annual licence fee, make adjustments with better enforcement and possible annual increases, or adopt new models like taxation or subscription-based funding.
The BBC, a key element of the UK’s global influence, faces criticism from both the political left and right over perceived bias but remains a symbol of impartial public broadcasting. In 2023/24, the licence fee generated £3.66 billion in revenue, slightly up from £3.51 billion in 2010/11.
Expanding the licence fee to include streaming service users aims to address the rise of on-demand viewing but may face resistance from consumers already paying subscription fees. Other considerations include making the licence fee more affordable for lower-income households or adopting a subscription model for BBC on-demand services similar to Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Government insiders noted that without a clear alternative, the licence fee remains the most feasible option for BBC funding.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
