Prasoon Joshi appointed as Prasar Bharati chairman

• Noted lyricist, writer and communications expert Prasoon Joshi has been appointed as the chairman of Prasar Bharati, India’s public service broadcaster.

• Joshi is a distinguished creative professional with wide-ranging contributions across literature, advertising, cinema, and public communication.

• Joshi’s body of work spans acclaimed film lyrics, advertising campaigns, and socially resonant storytelling that connects with diverse audiences across the country.

• Before this appointment, Joshi has served as chairperson, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Mumbai since August 2017.

• Earlier, he had also served as CEO, McCann World Group India and Chairman, McCann World Group Asia Pacific (a subsidiary of McCann Erickson). 

• Joshi is also one of the Trustees of Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts since 2016.

• With his extensive experience in creative industries and public communication, Joshi is expected to bring a unique perspective to the leadership of Prasar Bharati at a time when public broadcasting is navigating rapid technological transformation and evolving audience expectations.

Prasar Bharati

• Established under the Prasar Bharati (Broadcasting Corporation of India) Act, 1990, and operational since 1997, Prasar Bharati is India’s statutory autonomous public service broadcaster. 

It comprises two major divisions:

i) All India Radio (AIR) - One of the largest radio networks in the world, reaching millions across urban and rural India in multiple languages and dialects.

ii) Doordarshan (DD) - India’s national television broadcaster, offering a wide range of programming including news, education, entertainment, and cultural content.

• Prasar Bharati has also launched Waves OTT platform for strengthening free-to-air OTT services.

• Prasar Bharati plays a vital role in disseminating information, promoting national integration, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring access to credible public broadcasting services across the country.