Distribution platform operators (DPOs) and major TV distributors have welcomed the removal of broadcaster-driven audit powers under Regulation 15(2) while urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to adopt balanced, clear broadcast audit rules. Calling the revised broadcast audit framework balanced, DPOs said the change reduces compliance pressure and operational disruption. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has proposed updates to the Telecommunication (Broadcasting and Cable) Services Interconnection Regulations, 2017, with implementation expected in 2026.   As per StoryBoard18, operators such as Tata Play, Dish TV and Bharti Telemedia said broadcaster-initiated audits created unnecessary costs and operational strain. They believe audits should be handled only by TRAI-approved auditors. DPOs also praised plans to align audit cycles with the financial year and provide relief to smaller operators.  However, broadcasters and industry associations

The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) has announced the opening of applications for its Ph.D. Programme for the academic year 2025–26. Aspiring candidates in the fields of media, journalism, and mass communication have the opportunity to apply for this advanced research programme at one of India’s premier media education institutions.  The last date to submit applications is 10 February 2026, and interested candidates can apply online through the official IIMC portal at https://iimc.gov.in/admission-2025-2026   Candidates are advised to review the eligibility criteria and application guidelines carefully before applying.   

Image edited by Dinesh Raj M   When Prasar Bharati announced Creator’s Corner on DD News, the messaging was upbeat and deliberate. Prime-time visibility. Digital-first talent. A 90 per cent revenue share. And a clear promise that India’s creator economy would finally get a seat at the national broadcast table. On the surface, this looks like long-overdue modernisation. Dig a little deeper, and it becomes something more consequential: the State formally stepping into an ecosystem that grew precisely because it stayed outside institutional control. According to official statements carried by the Press Information Bureau and The Economic Times, the 30-minute slot will run five days a week at 7 pm, featuring four to six creator-led videos across news, culture, education, travel, science, and entertainment. Content will be vetted by an independent team, creators will receive full on-screen credit, and the model will operate on a revenue split heavily tilted in their f

A video showing DMK MLA M. Palaniyandi allegedly attacking a journalist in Srirangam has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders criticising the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government for failing to take action, South First reported. The incident reportedly occurred while the journalist was filming activities linked to the MLA where aleeged illegal quarrying was taking place. Despite the footage going viral, the state government has not announced any disciplinary measures against Palaniyandi. Opposition leaders including BJP state chief Nainar Nagenthran, PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss, and TVK head Vijay condemned the inaction, demanding accountability and warning that silence on the issue would send a dangerous message about press freedom in Tamil Nadu. The controversy has intensified political debate in the state, with critics arguing that the government’s response or lack thereof undermines its commitment to protecting journalists and upholding democratic values.

For public relations professionals looking to land coverage with the recently launched travel and lifestyle masthead, Ripe in Town, founder and editor-in-chief Lauren Deighton offers a clear roadmap to success.  In an interview with Influencing Insider, Deighton underlined the importance of tailored pitches, authentic experiences, and building genuine relationships. Deighton, who launched Ripe in Town less than three months ago, is keen to foster connections with PR professionals.  "I think relationships are fantastic," she says, adding, "I feel like the way I do business is, I’m a relationship person."  She believes connections lead to better pitches and ultimately, better content.  "It will produce better content if we know that PR person understands what we're trying to do as well." For those looking to get in touch, Deighton suggests a multi-pronged approach.  "Email's great, we've got an editorial email, of course.” That’s editorial@ripeintown.com But she also

Mark Furler, News Corp's National Digital Editor, regionals and communities, is celebrating no less than 40 years as a journalist. "It's been a long time," said Furler. "That's what I'm celebrating this year after starting as a cadet reporter with the Sunshine Coast Daily when I was 18. I had hair then. Lots of it. And plenty of enthusiasm. I still remember walking into the Daily's newsroom wearing a shiny grey suit and a thin red tie. I had landed my dream job, something I had first thought about when a school teacher in Year 4 said I should become a journalist. "It's been a career which has given me loads of great memories. There have been lots of tough, long days, but so many that have been rewarding with a sense of making a difference. Telling people's stories, campaigning for much needed change, and getting to know so many people continues to drive me each day." He also pointed to thje massive changes he's seen. "T

Welcome to Friday and yes I know it's early, but let's start with beer. The Daily Telegraph has devoted yards of ale, sorry yards of newsprint this morning on both the front page (an exclusive by Jessica Wang cleverly headlined 'POUR FORM') and on into page 5 (where the exclusive now includes William Elliott) and where there is also an excellent well written Comment piece by James Morrow ('Our itsy-bitsy drinking problem'), and even an editorial on page 20 ('They're middies but at a schooner price'). Yes, by all accounts the world is in turmoil but the world of beer grabs half of the Tele's front page. The reason? Short serves of beer. Apparently it's a thing across Sydney, and presumably elsewhere, because it seems some bartenders don't know how to pour the amber nectar properly. And a great picture by Justin Lloyd of one Sydney bartender who "knows how to pull the perfect beer". It's a very Daily Telegraph sto